The work of István Brodarics – Pécs
Fact of the Hungarian figure „The vast cemetery of our national greatness” – The Battle of Mohács”
Part of the „The myth of national disaster” topic
István Brodarics, born around 1470, was a distinguished humanist who played a pivotal role in documenting the events surrounding the Battle of Mohács. With a remarkable ecclesiastical and administrative career, Brodarics quickly rose through the ranks after returning from his studies in Italy. By the time of the Battle of Mohács, he held the positions of chancellor and Bishop of Szerém, making him a key figure in the Hungarian court.
As a participant in the battle, Brodarics narrowly escaped death, and in the aftermath of the tragedy, he joined the cause of János Szapolyai, the elected king of Hungary, against Ferdinand I of Habsburg. Recognizing the importance of preserving the memory of the battle, Brodarics was soon approached by King Sigismund of Poland, a cousin of the late King Louis II, to chronicle the events from his perspective.
The result was De conflict Hungarorum cum Turcis ad Mohatz verissima descriptio („The Truthful Description of the Battle of the Hungarians against the Turks at Mohács”), first published in Cracow in 1527. Written in Latin, this work is a rich blend of historical documentation, personal memoir, and literary artistry, inspired by the great classical authors.
Brodarics’s account provides a detailed and vivid description of the battle, capturing not only the military events but also the broader political and social context of the time. He emphasizes the challenges faced by Hungary and its Central European allies, including the difficulties in forming a unified defense against the Ottoman Empire. His narrative also reflects on the fragmented nature of the Central European response and the tragic consequences of the battle for the region.
Through his work, Brodarics offers invaluable insights into the complexities of Central European politics and the impact of the Battle of Mohács on Hungary and its neighbors. His chronicle remains a crucial source for historians, ensuring that the lessons of Mohács are remembered and that the story of Hungary’s struggle is preserved for future generations. His connection to Pécs, a city deeply affected by the battle and its aftermath, further underscores the significance of his contributions to Hungarian and Central European history.
