Jaroslav Kvapil

Jaroslav Kvapil (1868–1950) was a Czech librettist, poet, playwright, and theatre director best known for writing the libretto to Antonín Dvořák’s opera Rusalka (1901), one of the most beloved works in the Czech operatic canon. A central figure in the Czech National Revival and cultural life of the early 20th century, Kvapil played a crucial role in promoting Czech language and identity through his literary and theatrical work.

Born on September 25, 1868, in Moravská Třebová, Kvapil was deeply influenced by Romanticism, symbolism, and Czech folklore. He studied in Brno and later in Prague, where he became an important figure in literary and artistic circles. His writings often drew on myth, legend, and fairy tales, blending poetic imagination with national themes.

Kvapil’s libretto for Rusalka—a lyrical and tragic fairy tale about a water nymph who longs to become human—was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid as well as Slavic folklore. His poetic and emotionally rich text provided the perfect foundation for Dvořák’s deeply expressive score. Rusalka remains one of the most frequently performed Czech operas worldwide.

Beyond opera, Kvapil served as artistic director of the National Theatre in Prague, where he championed Czech playwrights and staged key works by both Czech and international authors. He was also a translator, introducing Czech audiences to the works of Shakespeare, Goethe, and other European literary giants.

Jaroslav Kvapil passed away on October 10, 1950, in Prague. His legacy endures in the enduring popularity of Rusalka and his lasting contributions to Czech literature, theatre, and national culture.