Muka’s questionnaire. On the genesis of the “Statistika łužiskich Serbow”

Abstract

Muka’s questionnaire. On the genesis of the “Statistika łužiskich Serbow”

The “Statistika łužiskich Serbow” [Statistics of the Lusatian Sorbs], published by Arnošt Muka between 1884 and 1886, is still one of the standard works of Sorbian studies today. However, Muka does not provide any information about his methodology or the specific collection and editing process of his work. A questionnaire found in the archives of the parish of Baruth – sent by the leading Protestant pastor Jaroměr Hendrich Imiš – and two letters of reply from the Baruth pastor now provide information about the creation of one of the most influential Sorbian books. It becomes clear that Muka’s figures in particular require further comparative research.