Roland Barthes

French linguist and literary theorist

Roland Barthes - French linguist and literary theorist
Born

November 12th, 1915
109 years ago

Died

March 26th, 1980
45 years ago — 64 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

France

Links & References

A prominent figure in literary theory and semiotics, contributed significantly to the understanding of texts and interpretation. Explored various areas including structuralism, mythology, and narrative theory. Authored several influential works that shaped literary criticism, particularly focusing on the relation between language and meaning. His ideas in 'Mythologies' and 'S/Z' interrogated the complexities of representation in culture, critique, and sign systems, establishing a foundational perspective in post-structuralist thought.

Authored 'Mythologies'

Wrote 'S/Z'

Pioneered concepts in semiotics

Other People Born on November 12th

John McGahern

Irish author of 'The Leavetaking'
Born
November 12th, 1934 90 years ago
Died
March 30th, 2006 19 years ago — 71 years old

An Irish author and educator, notable works include novels and short stories reflecting rural life and personal experience. 'The Leavetaking', one of the key novels, explores themes of love, loss, and identity. Teaching was also a significant part of the career, influencing generations of students. McGahern's writing style is characterized by clarity and emotional depth, contributing to the canon of Irish literature.

Continue Reading

Al Michaels

American sportscaster and commentator
Born
November 12th, 1944 80 years ago

Born in 1944, a prominent sportscaster in American television, played a significant role in sports broadcasting. Michaels started his career in radio and transitioned to television, where he gained attention for his work with NBC Sports. He served as the play-by-play announcer for several major events, including multiple Super Bowls and the Olympic Games. His call of the Miracle on Ice during the 1980 Winter Olympics solidified his reputation as an iconic voice in sports commentary. Over the years, Michaels has received numerous accolades for his work in television, including Emmy Awards and recognition from various sports organizations.

Continue Reading

Marcell Ozuna

Baseball player with significant MLB achievements
Born
November 12th, 1990 34 years ago

A professional baseball player from the Dominican Republic, celebrated for contributions in Major League Baseball. Made a significant impact as an outfielder for the Miami Marlins and the Atlanta Braves. Achieved the Silver Slugger Award in 2017 and helped the Braves win the National League East title in 2020. Recognized for strong offensive skills and consistent performance throughout different seasons with various teams.

Continue Reading

Sarah Harmer

Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 12th, 1970 54 years ago

This individual is a Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist who emerged in the 1990s. Initially gaining recognition as a member of the band Weeping Tile, transitioned to a successful solo career. Released several acclaimed albums, including 'You Were Here' and 'I'm a Mountain.' Songs often reflect personal experiences and environmental themes. Actively involved in environmental activism, particularly in relation to Ontario's natural resources.

Continue Reading

Brian Hyland

Pop singer with hit 'Itsy Bitsy Spider'
Born
November 12th, 1943 81 years ago

Brian Hyland is an American pop singer recognized for his contributions to the music industry during the 1960s. He gained significant popularity with the release of the hit single 'Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polkadot Bikini' in 1960, which achieved commercial success and remains a classic. His musical style characterizes the early bubblegum pop genre, and he released a number of other singles and albums throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Luguelín Santos

Dominican sprinter Olympic medalist
Born
November 12th, 1992 32 years ago

A prominent sprinter from the Dominican Republic specialized in the 400 meters. Competed in the 2012 Summer Olympics held in London, winning a silver medal in the men's 400 meters. Santos achieved personal best times that placed him among the top athletes in the world during his competitive years. Participated in various international competitions including the World Championships and the Pan American Games, consistently showcasing his athletic capabilities.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on March 26th

Robert Fagles

American poet and translator of classics
Born
1933 92 years ago
Died
March 26th, 2008 17 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent scholar of classical literature, contributions include acclaimed translations of Homer’s 'The Iliad' and 'The Odyssey'. Fagles taught at Princeton University, influencing countless students and readers through his academic work. His translations are celebrated for their accessibility and poetic quality, revitalizing ancient texts for modern audiences. Additionally, he authored several volumes of poetry, reflecting on personal and universal themes. Fagles received multiple honors, including the PEN / Ralph Manheim Medal for Translation, acknowledging his influence in bridging the gap between ancient and contemporary literature.

Continue Reading

David Lloyd George

Welsh Prime Minister and politician
Born
January 17th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1945 80 years ago — 82 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1916 to 1922. Played a significant role in domestic reforms and in the establishment of the welfare state. Instrumental in the negotiation of the Treaty of Versailles after World War I, which aimed to create lasting peace in Europe. His leadership during the war emphasized national mobilization and economic management. Associated with the Liberal Party, he contributed to numerous social reforms that shaped modern Britain.

Continue Reading

Eugen Jochum

Conductor of symphony orchestras
Born
November 1st, 1902 122 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1987 38 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent conductor active in the 20th century. Conducted many major orchestras and won notable recognition for the interpretation of classical music. Developed a deep understanding of symphonic works, particularly those by Bruckner and Mahler. Led the Berlin Philharmonic and the Munich Philharmonic, contributing to the prestige of these institutions. Received an honorary title from the Bavarian State Ministry of Education in 1971.

Continue Reading

James F. Hinkle

American banker and 6th Governor of New Mexico
Born
October 20th, 1864 160 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1951 74 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 6th Governor of New Mexico from 1931 to 1935. Managed the state's financial affairs during the Great Depression. Also contributed to the development of banking in New Mexico. Played a significant role in implementing policies that aimed to stabilize the economy and support local industries during turbulent times.

Continue Reading

James Hutton

Geologist; Theory of the Earth
Born
June 3rd, 1726 299 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1797 228 years ago — 70 years old

A Scottish geologist and physician, contributed significantly to the development of modern geology. Proposed the theory of uniformitarianism, which posited that the Earth's features were shaped by continuous and observable processes over long periods. Established foundational ideas about sedimentation and the rock cycle. Published work titled 'Theory of the Earth' in 1788, which elaborated on these concepts and helped form the basis for geological understanding. His ideas challenged prevailing notions of Earth's history and influenced future geological studies.

Continue Reading

Mansur Al-Hallaj

Persian mystic and poet of Sufism
Died
March 26th, 922 1103 years ago — None years old

A prominent figure in Sufism, this individual contributed significantly to Islamic mysticism and poetry. His works emphasized the importance of love and divine unity. He authored several notable poems and treatises, including 'Tawasin', exploring themes of spirituality and self-discovery. His teachings often transcended religious boundaries, challenging orthodox beliefs and advocating for a more personal experience of the divine. The resolve to articulate mystical experiences led to considerable controversy, culminating in trial and execution due to charges of heresy. The legacy includes profound influences on both Sufi thought and Persian literature.

Continue Reading