Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
- Born:
- August 28, 1749, Frankfurt am Main, Holy Roman Empire
- Died:
- March 22, 1832, Weimar, Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach
- Nationality:
- German
- Profession(s):
- Writer, Poet, Novelist, Playwright, Scientist, Statesman, Theatre Director, Critic
Early Life and Education
- Privately tutored in languages, science, and drawing.
- Studied law at the University of Leipzig (1765-1768).
- Continued legal studies at the University of Strasbourg (1770-1771).
Career and Major Achievements
- Appointed to the Privy Council of Duke Karl August of Saxe-Weimar in 1775.
- Served as a statesman, managing various administrative responsibilities, including finance and military affairs.
- Directed the Weimar Court Theatre for several decades.
- Made significant contributions to the study of botany, anatomy, and optics.
Notable Works
- The Sorrows of Young Werther (1774)
- Faust (Part One 1808, Part Two 1832)
- Wilhelm Meister's Apprenticeship (1795-96)
- Italian Journey (1816-17)
- Theory of Colours (1810)
- Elective Affinities (1809)
- Dichtung und Wahrheit (Poetry and Truth): Also known as From My Life: Poetry and Truth, a four-part work frequently referred to as Goethe Autobiography.
Legacy and Impact
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is considered one of the most important figures of German literature and a major influence on European thought. His works explored themes of individualism, nature, and the human condition, and his scientific studies challenged conventional wisdom. His contributions to literature, science, and politics continue to be studied and admired.