This thesis deals with the life and work of Karel Dostal. The first chapter provides biographical data and tries to map his personality. The following chapters are devoted to his creative work in theatre and in film industry. The work is divided according to professional fields ? Karel Dostál as an actor and Karel Dostál as a director. Primary it is focusing on his scope in National Theatre, where Karel Dostál spent the longest part of his career. It describes several productions which he directed. Specifically selected productions are divided into several creative periods of his life, which carries significant changes in director´s handwriting. Most productions are supported by visual material and contemporary criticism. Another part of this thesis is an analysis of some of his roles in theatre and films. These descriptions of actor?s performance should serve as refutation of knowledge of Karel Dostál as an actor of small and inconsequential roles. Simultaneously, this thesis is pointing at whole range of raw material about fundamental personality of Czech theatre scene.