Essays on literary works - 2024

The great German poet and thinker (Johann Wolfgang Goethe)

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The name alone sounds like a password to some secret society of intellectual overachievers. But let's be real—if you’ve only heard of him because your high school teacher forced you to read Faust or you stumbled upon a moody quote on Tumblr, you're not alone. Goethe is that enigmatic figure who seems to have done everything: poet, playwright, scientist, statesman, and all-around Renaissance man. Yet, despite his monumental influence, he often feels like a distant, untouchable icon. But here's the twist: Goethe was as messy, passionate, and contradictory as any of us scrolling through existential memes at 2 AM.

The Original Emo: The Sorrows of Young Werther

Before there were TikTok e-boys and indie rock ballads about unrequited love, there was Werther. Goethe's 1774 novel, The Sorrows of Young Werther, wasn't just a book—it was a cultural phenomenon. Young men across Europe donned blue coats and yellow waistcoats to emulate the tragic hero, and the term "Werther Fever" wasn't just a metaphor—it was a real thing. Napoleon reportedly carried a copy with him during his campaigns. The novel's intense emotionality and exploration of unrequited love resonated deeply, leading to both adoration and controversy. Some even blamed it for a wave of copycat suicides, dubbing it the "Werther Effect" .

But here's the kicker: Goethe wrote Werther as a catharsis, a way to purge his own youthful angst. He later distanced himself from the work, perhaps realizing that diving headfirst into emotion without a life jacket isn't always sustainable. Still, Werther remains a testament to the raw, unfiltered feelings that many of us grapple with, making Goethe the OG emo kid.

Faust: The Ultimate Midlife Crisis

Imagine spending over 60 years writing a play. That's not dedication; that's obsession. Goethe's Faust is a sprawling, two-part epic that delves into the human soul's deepest desires and contradictions. Dr. Faust, the protagonist, makes a deal with Mephistopheles (basically the devil) to gain unlimited knowledge and pleasure. It's the ultimate "be careful what you wish for" tale.

But Faust isn't just a story about a man selling his soul; it's a reflection of Goethe himself. The play grapples with themes of ambition, desire, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. It's messy, profound, and, at times, downright confusing—much like life itself. And perhaps that's the point.

Beyond the Pen: Goethe the Scientist and Statesman

While many know Goethe for his literary prowess, he was also a dedicated scientist. He conducted studies in botany, anatomy, and color theory, challenging the Newtonian understanding of light and color. His holistic approach to science emphasized the interconnectedness of nature, a perspective that resonates with modern ecological and philosophical thought .

Politically, Goethe served as a statesman in Weimar, implementing administrative reforms and contributing to the cultural development of the region. His involvement in the Weimar Classicism movement, alongside Friedrich Schiller, sought to harmonize the ideals of the Enlightenment with classical art and literature, promoting a balanced and humanistic worldview .

Goethe's Relevance Today

In an age dominated by rapid technological advancement and information overload, Goethe's emphasis on self-reflection, personal growth (Bildung), and the pursuit of holistic understanding offers a counterbalance. His works encourage readers to delve deep into their own experiences, question societal norms, and seek authenticity in a world that often values superficiality.

Moreover, Goethe's exploration of human emotion, desire, and the complexities of the soul remains timeless. Whether it's Werther's heartbreak or Faust's insatiable ambition, these narratives continue to resonate, reminding us of our shared humanity.

Final Thoughts

Goethe wasn't just a man of his time; he was a man ahead of his time. His multifaceted pursuits and profound insights into the human condition make him a figure worth revisiting, not just in academic settings but in our personal journeys toward understanding ourselves and the world around us.

So, the next time you find yourself lost in thought, questioning your path, or simply seeking meaning in the chaos, remember Goethe. Dive into his works, not as relics of the past, but as guides for the present and future.