August Vermeylen

August Vermeylen was a prominent Belgian writer and literary critic, known for his contributions to both literature and cultural discourse in Belgium. Born in Brussels, he pursued his studies in history at the Free University of Brussels, where he later became a professor of literature and art history from 1901 to 1923. In 1893, he founded the influential literary journal Van Nu en Straks, which played a significant role in shaping the literary landscape of his time. Vermeylen's literary output included poetry and criticism, with his notable novel, De wandelende Jood (The Wandering Jew), published in 1906, reflecting his deep engagement with themes of identity and culture. Vermeylen's political involvement was marked by his support for a unified Belgian state and advocacy for the equal status of the Dutch language. His commitment to these ideals led him to serve as a senator for the Belgian Labour Party from 1921 until his death in 1945. He was also a key figure in academia, becoming the first rector of the newly Dutchified Ghent University in 1930. Despite his significant contributions, his career was disrupted by the German occupation during World War II, which led to his removal from official positions. Today, his legacy endures through the Vermeylenfonds, a cultural organization named in his honor, and through his influence on Belgian literature and politics.