The renowned Finnish author Mika Waltari's name is pronounced as /miːkɑ ˈwæltɑri/ - "Mee-ka Wal-ta-ri". The first name, Mika, is two syllables, with emphasis on the first one, and the letter "a" pronounced as a long vowel. The last name, Waltari, is three syllables, with emphasis on the first one, the letter "a" pronounced as a short vowel, and the letter "i" pronounced as a separate syllable. Waltari is known for his classic novel, The Egyptian, and his work has been translated into more than 30 languages.
Mika Waltari was a Finnish author and screenwriter born on September 19, 1908, and passed away on August 26, 1979. He is best known for his significant contributions to Finnish literature and his versatile writing style. Waltari's literary works encompass a wide range of genres, including historical fiction, crime novels, poetry, drama, and essays.
Considered one of the most influential Finnish writers of his time, Waltari gained international recognition with the publication of his magnum opus, "The Egyptian" (Finnish: Sinuhe egyptiläinen) in 1945. This meticulously researched historical novel explores the life and adventures of a fictional physician named Sinuhe set in ancient Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Akhenaten and his successor, Tutankhamun. "The Egyptian" remains his most renowned work, translated into numerous languages and adapted for film.
In addition to "The Egyptian," Waltari's body of work comprises over 30 novels, where he delves into various themes and settings. His writing style is characterized by a strong emphasis on historical authenticity, rich character development, and compelling storytelling. Waltari's writing often intertwines his extensive research with imaginative storytelling, resulting in gripping narratives that transport readers to different periods in history.
Throughout his career, Mika Waltari received several awards and accolades, including the Finnish State Prize for Literature and the Pro Finlandia Medal. His literary contributions have left a lasting impact on Finnish literature, promoting cultural heritage, and fostering an enduring love for storytelling and historical fiction.
The word Mika Waltari does not have any specific etymology as it is a proper name. Mika is a Finnish given name derived from the Hebrew name Michael, meaning who is like God. Waltari is a Finnish surname, and its origins are not clear. It could possibly be of Germanic origin or have roots in old Finnic languages. However, without more information, it is difficult to determine the exact etymology of the name Waltari.