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READING CIRCLES IN HUNGARY IN THE 20TH CENTURY
Abstract
Starting from the middle of the 19th century, several reading circles were established in the wide countryside, villages, and areas covered with farms. These were autonomous organisations established by the inhabitants, covering the local society of a smaller zone, town district or border section. By the end of the 1930-ies, approx. 1800 such associations operated in Hungary, with approx. 150,000 members. Also including the members' families and relatives, altogether 700,000-800,000 people were related to these associations. First of all smallholders (yeomen) were the members of the associations, but reading circles also included tradesmen and merchants from the countryside. Public servants and intellectuals also represented themselves. From among the members, first adult men had voting right. Within the association, special groups were established for young people and women. However, this discrimination had disappeared by the middle of the 20th century: young people and women could also become full members. Reading circles had relatively large management team, generally including one third of the members. In this way, each active member had some role, no one was overwhelmed with tasks, and the management operated under wide control. Associations had complex functions. They had libraries, organized cultural events, and professional and public education courses for adults. Reading Circles had important social tasks. They served as info bases, ensured possibility to deliverance, provided protection of interests, as well as formed local public life. They were also involved in farming. Reading circles served as marketplaces, bought and lent agricultural machinery, and supported local farmers by joint procurement or sales. With this, they strengthened solidarity within local communities, raising their social and cultural demands, and the creation of a self-conscious civil mentality.
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