# Samuil Marshak

> Russian and Soviet poet, playwright, translator, literary critic, screenwriter, author of popular children's books (1887–1964)

**Wikidata**: [Q435584](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q435584)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samuil_Marshak)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/samuil-marshak

## Summary
Samuil Marshak was a Russian and Soviet poet, playwright, translator, literary critic, screenwriter, and author of popular children's books (1887–1964). He is best known for his contributions to Soviet children's literature and his work as a translator of Western poetry into Russian.

## Biography
- Born: October 22, 1887, in Moscow, Russian Empire
- Nationality: Russian, Soviet
- Education: Studied at the University of Moscow and the University of London
- Known for: Writing children's books, translating Western poetry, and contributing to Soviet literary culture
- Employer(s): USSR Union of Writers, University of London
- Field(s): Literature, poetry, children's writing, translation

## Contributions
Samuil Marshak authored numerous children's books, including *The Little Golden Calf* (1931), which became a classic in Soviet children's literature. He also translated works by French poets such as Charles Baudelaire and Paul Verlaine into Russian, making their works accessible to Soviet readers. Marshak's poetry and plays were widely published and performed, shaping the literary landscape of the Soviet Union. Additionally, he served as a screenwriter for several films, further contributing to Soviet cultural production.

## FAQs
**What is Samuil Marshak best known for?**
Samuil Marshak is best known for his children's books, including *The Little Golden Calf*, and his translations of Western poetry into Russian. His work significantly influenced Soviet children's literature and cultural expression.

**Where did Samuil Marshak study?**
Samuil Marshak studied at the University of Moscow and the University of London, where he pursued his education in literature and translation.

**What awards did Samuil Marshak receive?**
Samuil Marshak received several awards, including the Stalin Prize, the Order of Lenin, and the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st class, recognizing his contributions to Soviet literature and culture.

**What was Samuil Marshak's role in the USSR Union of Writers?**
Samuil Marshak was a member of the USSR Union of Writers, a creative union of professional writers in the Soviet Union, where he contributed to literary and cultural initiatives.

**How did Samuil Marshak contribute to Soviet cultural production?**
Samuil Marshak contributed to Soviet cultural production as a screenwriter for several films and as a translator of Western poetry, making his work accessible to Soviet audiences.

## Why They Matter
Samuil Marshak played a crucial role in shaping Soviet children's literature and cultural expression. His children's books, such as *The Little Golden Calf*, became beloved classics, influencing generations of Soviet readers. His translations of Western poetry introduced Soviet audiences to influential works by French poets, enriching the literary landscape of the Soviet Union. Marshak's work as a screenwriter further contributed to Soviet cultural production, reflecting his versatility as a literary figure. His influence extended beyond his lifetime, as his writings continue to be studied and appreciated for their contributions to Soviet and Russian literature.

## Notable For
- Author of *The Little Golden Calf*, a classic in Soviet children's literature
- Translator of Western poetry, including works by Charles Baudelaire and Paul Verlaine
- Member of the USSR Union of Writers, contributing to Soviet literary culture
- Recipient of prestigious awards, including the Stalin Prize and the Order of Lenin
- Screenwriter for several films, furthering his contributions to Soviet cultural production

## Body
### Early Life and Education
Samuil Marshak was born on October 22, 1887, in Moscow, Russian Empire. He studied at the University of Moscow and later at the University of London, where he pursued his education in literature and translation. His early exposure to diverse literary traditions shaped his career as a writer and translator.

### Literary Career
Samuil Marshak began his literary career in the early 20th century, contributing to various literary journals and publications. His poetry and plays were widely published and performed, earning him recognition as a prominent figure in Soviet literature. He also served as a literary critic, offering insights into the evolving literary landscape of the Soviet Union.

### Children's Writing
One of Samuil Marshak's most significant contributions was his work as an author of children's books. His most famous work, *The Little Golden Calf*, was published in 1931 and became a beloved classic in Soviet children's literature. The book's themes of friendship, adventure, and moral lessons resonated with Soviet children, making it a lasting influence on the genre.

### Translation Work
Samuil Marshak was a prolific translator, bringing works by French poets such as Charles Baudelaire and Paul Verlaine into Russian. His translations made these influential poets accessible to Soviet readers, enriching the literary landscape of the Soviet Union. His work as a translator bridged cultural and linguistic divides, fostering a deeper appreciation for Western poetry.

### Screenwriting and Cultural Contributions
In addition to his literary work, Samuil Marshak served as a screenwriter for several films, contributing to Soviet cultural production. His ability to adapt literary works for the screen further expanded his influence, making his writings accessible to a broader audience.

### Awards and Recognition
Samuil Marshak received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including the Stalin Prize, the Order of Lenin, and the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st class. These accolades recognized his significant contributions to Soviet literature and cultural expression.

### Legacy
Samuil Marshak's legacy endures through his enduring influence on Soviet and Russian literature. His children's books, poetry, and translations continue to be studied and appreciated for their contributions to the literary canon. His work as a translator and screenwriter further cemented his place as a versatile and influential figure in Soviet cultural production.

## References

1. Great Soviet Encyclopedia (1969–1978)
2. BnF authorities
3. Integrated Authority File
4. LIBRIS. 2012
5. datos.bne.es
6. The Fine Art Archive
7. general catalog of BnF
8. CiNii Research
9. Bibliothèque nationale de France
10. MusicBrainz
11. [Source](http://uag.kzn.ru/docs/OPAiKN/pdf/272.pdf)
12. Writers of St. Petersburg. XX century
13. ProDetLit
14. Russian literature of the 20th century. Volume 2, 2005
15. SNAC
16. International Music Score Library Project
17. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
18. Virtual International Authority File
19. CONOR.SI
20. Great Russian Encyclopedia
21. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
22. Enciclopedia Treccani
23. Virtual Study of Theatre Institute
24. Catalogo of the National Library of India