Branislav Nušić, originally known as Alkibijad Nuša, was a Serbian literary luminary, distinguished by his impressive range of expertise and accomplishments in various creative and professional realms. Throughout his illustrious career, Nušić demonstrated his remarkable versatility and talent as a playwright, satirist, essayist, and novelist, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.
Nušić's literary career began with the publication of a poem in 1887, a daring work titled "Dva raba" or "Two Servants", which employed humor to criticize the Serbian King Milan for attending the funeral of an unpopular general's mother. This bold move, however, had far-reaching and unintended consequences, as Nušić was subsequently arrested, formally charged with the criminal offense of lèse-majesté, and sentenced to a period of two years in prison.
Despite the severity of his punishment, Nušić's good behavior in prison ultimately led to his early release after serving only a single year of his sentence.
Nušić's literary prowess is not limited to his novels, as his plays have garnered widespread acclaim, solidifying his status as a master of comedic storytelling. Notably, his repertoire includes a diverse range of comedies, each showcasing his exceptional skill in crafting humorous narratives. These notable plays include "The Cabinet Minister's Wife", a witty exploration of the complexities of political life, as well as "A Suspicious Person", "A Member of the Parliament", "Bereaved Family", "The Deceased", and "Doctor", all of which have contributed to his enduring reputation as a master of comedic storytelling.
