Hrvatske narodne pjesme – Knjiga osma: Junačke pjesme (odio prvi, sveska peta)

Croatian Folk Songs – Book Eight: Heroic Songs (Part One, Volume Five) represents an important part of the monumental publication of Matica Hrvatska dedicated to the collection and preservation of Croatian oral epic. In this book, the editor, philologist and writer Dr. Nikola Andrić, brings a selection of Uskok and hajduk poems, two genres deeply rooted in the historical experiences of war conflicts, defensive feats and folk legends.

The Uskok poems in the first part of the book depict border conflicts, daring raids, rescues, the fight against foreign rule and the exploits of individuals whose boldness has become legends. Titles such as “The Unfortunate Campaign of Count Fran”, “The Guard of Ram burns down his church”, “The Croatian Girl Transforms into a Croatian Bannerman” or “Ilija Perlušić Beats the Turks at Klis” testify to the dynamic and combative nature of these poems.

The second part brings hajduk poems, focused on life outside the law, revenge, courage and conflicts with Ottoman authorities and local thugs. There are motifs such as the murder of a dizdar, the kidnapping of girls, the rescue of comrades, the death of heroes and reprisals against enemies. Poems such as “Fajka se odmeće u hajduke”, “Vidak harambaša i barun Franjo Trenk”, “Harambaša Malen i nevjerna Stojanova ljuba” or “Nećak Marijan osvećuje ujaka Mijata” exude tension, dramatic twists and a strong sense of justice.

The book is designed in accordance with the high editorial standards of Matica hrvatska, and Andrić’s work includes carefully selected variants and the preservation of the authentic linguistic and rhythmic structure of old poems. As part of a large series, the eighth book represents a valuable source for studying Croatian tradition, but also an attractive read for readers who want to learn about the rich world of heroes, hajduks and uskoks. The hardcover and classic edition from 1939 is still a valuable antiquarian copy today.