Milan Begović

Milan Begović (1876–1948) was a prominent Croatian playwright, librettist, poet, and novelist, known for his contributions to modern Croatian literature and opera. A master of language and emotion, Begović wrote across genres, but he is especially celebrated for his role as the librettist for the opera Ero s onoga svijeta (Ero the Joker), composed by Jakov Gotovac—one of the most beloved operas in the South Slavic tradition.

Born on January 19, 1876, in Vrlika, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Begović was educated in Split and Vienna. He began his literary career as a poet and prose writer, but his sharp dramatic instincts and keen psychological insight led him to theatre, where he wrote a number of successful plays that explored themes of identity, tradition, love, and social norms.

Begović’s most enduring legacy in music theatre came with his libretto for Ero s onoga svijeta (1935), a comic opera rooted in Croatian folk tales and village life. The opera combines humor, romance, and folkloric color, and Begović’s witty, lyrical text plays a central role in its continued popularity across Europe and beyond.

In addition to his theatrical work, Begović served as a director of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb and was a key cultural figure in interwar Yugoslavia. He helped shape modern Croatian drama and was influential in promoting Croatian literary and artistic identity during a time of significant political and cultural change.

Milan Begović died in Zagreb on May 13, 1948. His work continues to be celebrated in Croatia and internationally for its charm, craftsmanship, and contributions to both literature and opera. His libretti, particularly Ero s onoga svijeta, remain shining examples of how national folklore can be elevated to timeless, universal art.