Konstantin Dobrodzhanu-Gera Romanian sociologist, author of works on aesthetics, literary critic. Date of Birth: 21.05.1855 Country: Romania

1. Early Life and Political Involvement
2. Exile and Return
3. Entrepreneurial and Literary Pursuits
4. Sociological Contributions
5. Literary Criticism and Aesthetics
6. Political Legacy

A Romanian Intellectual and Social Activist: Alexandru Dobrogeanu-Gherea

Alexandru Dobrogeanu-Gherea was a prominent Romanian sociologist, literary critic, and an influential figure in the country's social and political landscape.

Early Life and Political Involvement

Born in 1852, Dobrogeanu-Gherea studied at Kharkiv University in Ukraine, where he became actively involved in political activities against the Tsarist regime. Due to his involvement, he was pursued by the secret police and forced to flee to Romania in 1875.

Exile and Return

During the Russo-Turkish War (1877-1878), Dobrogeanu-Gherea was captured by the Russian authorities and sent into exile in Siberia. However, he managed to escape in 1879 and returned to Romania, adopting the Christian faith and the surname Dobrogeanu.

Entrepreneurial and Literary Pursuits

Upon his return, Dobrogeanu-Gherea engaged in business ventures in the oil industry, establishing connections with notable figures such as Leon Trotsky and Christian Rakovsky. He also played a key role in the literary scene, becoming a close friend and confidant of playwright and satirist Ion Luca Caragiale.

Sociological Contributions

Dobrogeanu-Gherea made significant contributions to sociology, focusing on agrarian issues and the growing problem of antisemitism in Romania and neighboring regions. His magnum opus, entitled "New Slavery: Economic-Sociological Studies on Our Agrarian Problem" (1910), analyzed the exploitation and oppression of rural workers.

Literary Criticism and Aesthetics

In his literary criticism, Dobrogeanu-Gherea shared similarities with Titu Maiorescu's aesthetic theories. However, he also emphasized the importance of social context and class struggle in understanding artistic works.

Political Legacy

Dobrogeanu-Gherea was one of the founders of the Social Democratic Party of Workers of Romania. As a social activist, he advocated for the rights of workers and the marginalized, contributing to the development of a progressive political consciousness in Romanian society.