Đuka Begović

The work is the pinnacle of Kozarac's work, known for its modernist approach, Slavonian color and Štokavian ikavica. The plot begins with Đuka's return to the village after four years in prison for the murder of his father Šime, a spendthrift and beggar who raised Đuka in a spirit of idleness, drinking and enjoyment. Đuka, marked by his father's influence, lives uninhibitedly, giving in to alcohol, passions and wastefulness, which leads him to material and spiritual ruin. Although he temporarily tries to live more responsibly, he quickly returns to his old habits, changes wives, squanders his wealth and ends up as a shepherd. The novel explores themes of inner struggle, unbridled temperament, conflict with social norms and ruin caused by life choices, with lyrical descriptions of Slavonian nature and tradition.