A Tribute to Jan Kořenský

Abstract

The article „A Tribute to Jan Kořenský“ by Oldřich Uličný nostalgically reflects on the academic and personal life of Jan Kořenský, a significant Czech linguist, and their studies at the then Pedagogical University in Olomouc. The author recalls his first meeting with Kořenský in 1955, their studies, and cultural activities, as well as notable professors and the scientific growth at the Institute of the Czech Language in Prague. The article also documents their shared period during a turbulent time in Czech history, including normalization and political pressures that influenced their lives. Uličný highlights Kořenský‘s contributions to Czech linguistics, especially in semantics, pragmatics, and communication theory of language, concluding that his legacy and influence are evident in the work and enthusiasm of many generations of students. This remembrance draws from personal experiences and reveals the impact that their shared historical and academic journey may have had on the Czech linguistic community.