Originally published in 1977, this volume traces the development of literary forms and themes and of movements and schools, during the overtly philosophical age. It begins with the prominent poets of the 1720s and 1730s: Brockes, Hagedorn and Haller. It charts the many attempts at formulating poetic theory, particularly those of Gottsched, Bodmer and Breitnger. Emphasis is placed on the dramatic writings of J. E. Schlegel, Gellert and Ch. F. Weisse. Young Goethe’s creativity in all genres, Lenz’ and Klinger’s fascination with the stage and the lyric poetry of the Göttinger Hain explains the effectiveness of the Sturm und Drang.
Part 1: The Philosophical Features of the Age of Enlightenment in Germany 1. The Determining Factors: A Diversity of Approaches 2. A New Reading Public 3. The Philosophical Assumptions 4. The Historical Background Part 2: Rationalism and Classicism 1. New Approaches 2. New Norms: Gottsched Part 3: Sentimentalism and the Spirit of Rococo 1. The Challenge from Switzerland: Bodmer and Breitinger 2. The Challenge from Germany 3. Diversity in Drama: Krüger and Weisse 4. Diversity in Poetry 5. The Use of Satire: Liscow, Rabner and Zachariae Part 4. New Standards 1. Klopstock and the Development of Lyric Poetry 2. Wieland and the Development of the Novel 3. Lessing and the Development of Drama Part 5: Sturm und Drang 1. A Change in Direction 2. Young Goethe 3. Fascination with the Stage 4. Drawn to Nature: The ‘Göttinger Hain’ 5. A Critical Look at the Period: Lichtenburg
Biography
Friedhelm Radandt was Professor of German at Lake College, Illinois, USA.
