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Wilhelm HenckelRussian and German translator and publisher.
Date of Birth: 17.04.1825
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Johann Gustav Classen Genkel
- Independent Firm and Notable Publications
- Challenges and Translations in Munich
- Landmark Translation of "Crime and Punishment"
- Prolific Translator of Russian Authors
- Literary Contributions in German Newspapers
Johann Gustav Classen Genkel
German and Russian Translator and PublisherJohann Gustav Classen Genkel was a renowned German and Russian translator and publisher born in Prussia. After serving in various bookstores in Saint Petersburg and abroad, he established the acclaimed firm A. Smirdin & Co. with Smirdin-son in 1854.
Independent Firm and Notable Publications
In the 1860s, Genkel embarked on his own independent venture. He published the artistic album "Northern Lights" and the first collections of works by renowned Russian authors such as A. I. Levitov, Gleb Uspensky, V. Ya. Yakushkin, and A. M. Stanyukovich. Genkel also played a significant role in publishing the literary journal "Nedelya."
Challenges and Translations in Munich
Genkel's business ventures faced difficulties in the 1870s. He relocated to Munich, where he dedicated himself to translating works from Russian into German. His translations played a crucial role in introducing the German public to contemporary Russian literature.
Landmark Translation of "Crime and Punishment"
Genkel's 1882 translation of Fyodor Dostoevsky's novel "Crime and Punishment" (titled "Raskolnikow" in German) was a critical success. It gained widespread recognition and fueled European critical analysis of Dostoevsky's literary prowess.
Prolific Translator of Russian Authors
Throughout his career, Genkel translated approximately 30 volumes of works by influential Russian writers such as Ivan Turgenev, Dostoevsky, Nikolai Kostomarov, Vsevolod Garshin, Leo Tolstoy, Ignaty Potapenko, and Yakov Polonsky.
Literary Contributions in German Newspapers
Genkel disseminated his knowledge of Russian literature through articles in various German newspapers. Notably, he regularly contributed to the prestigious "Münchener Allgemeine Zeitung."
