Goethe
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
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Full Name and Common Aliases
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born on August 28, 1749, in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, to Johann Caspar Goethe and Catharina Elizabeth Textor. He is commonly referred to as Goethe or The Great German Poet.
Birth and Death Dates
Born: August 28, 1749
Died: March 22, 1832
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: German
Profession: Poet, Novelist, Playwright, Philosopher, Scientist, Statesman
Early Life and Background
Goethe was the only child of Johann Caspar Goethe, a wealthy lawyer, and Catharina Elizabeth Textor. His father's family had been prominent in Frankfurt for centuries, but his mother came from a more modest background. Growing up, Goethe received an excellent education at home, studying Latin, Greek, French, Italian, and English. He showed a keen interest in literature and science from an early age.
In 1765, Goethe enrolled at the University of Leipzig to study law, but his true passion lay in the arts. He began writing poetry and plays, and his first published work, "The Sorrows of Young Werther," was released in 1774. The book became a huge success, selling over 10,000 copies in its first year alone.
Major Accomplishments
Goethe's contributions to literature, science, and philosophy are numerous:
He is considered one of the greatest poets in German literature.
His novel "Faust" is an epic tale of love, redemption, and the human condition.
Goethe was a pioneer in color theory and made significant contributions to the field of optics.
He served as a statesman for many years, playing a key role in the reorganization of Germany.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Goethe's most notable works include:
"The Sorrows of Young Werther" (1774): A novel about a young man's tragic love affair that became an instant bestseller.
"Faust" (1808): An epic poem about the legendary Faust, who sells his soul to the devil in exchange for knowledge and power.
"Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship" (1796): A novel about a young man's journey of self-discovery.Impact and Legacy
Goethe's impact on literature, science, and philosophy is immeasurable. He:
Influenced countless writers, including Mary Shelley, Charles Dickens, and Friedrich Nietzsche.
Revolutionized color theory with his book "Theory of Colors" (1810).
Served as a model for the modern concept of a polymath.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Goethe's quotes are still widely read today because of their timeless wisdom and insight into the human condition. His words offer guidance on love, loss, redemption, and the pursuit of knowledge. As a true Renaissance man, Goethe continues to inspire people from all walks of life with his remarkable achievements in literature, science, philosophy, and politics.
His legacy serves as a reminder that art and science are intertwined and that one person can make a profound impact on the world.
Quotes by Goethe
Goethe's insights on:
Every situation— not every moment— is of infinite worth; for it is the representative of a whole eternity.
We ought not to isolate ourselves, for we cannot remain in a state of isolation. Social intercourse makes us the more able to bear with ourselves and with others.
The revolutionary outbreaks of the lower classes are the consequence of the injustices of the higher class.
Austere perseverance, harsh and continuous, may be employed by the least of us and rarely fails of its purpose for its silent power grows irreversibly greater with time.
It is easier to perceive error than to find truth, for the former lies on the surface and is easily seen, while the latter lies in the depth, where few are willing to search for it.
Every situation— nay, every moment— is of infinite worth; for it is the representative of a whole eternity.
Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it. Begin it now.