Generally recognized as one of the greatest and most
versatile European writers and thinkers of
modern times, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, (born Aug. 28,
1749, died Mar. 22, 1832), profoundly influenced the
growth of literary romanticism. Best known for his
lyrical poetry, for the far-reaching influence of his
novels, and particularly for his dramatic poem Faust
(Part 1, 1808; Part 2, 1832; Eng. trans., 1838), Goethe
also made substantial contributions to biology and to
the history and philosophy of science. He was without
question one of the greatest figures of German culture,
encompassing literature, science, music, and philosophy
within his work. His early poems and novels display the
sensibilities characteristic of the Sturm und Drang
movement; his later works, culminating in Faust
(1808-32), superbly synthesize knowledge, philosophy,
and art.
modern times, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, (born Aug. 28,
1749, died Mar. 22, 1832), profoundly influenced the
growth of literary romanticism. Best known for his
lyrical poetry, for the far-reaching influence of his
novels, and particularly for his dramatic poem Faust
(Part 1, 1808; Part 2, 1832; Eng. trans., 1838), Goethe
also made substantial contributions to biology and to
the history and philosophy of science. He was without
question one of the greatest figures of German culture,
encompassing literature, science, music, and philosophy
within his work. His early poems and novels display the
sensibilities characteristic of the Sturm und Drang
movement; his later works, culminating in Faust
(1808-32), superbly synthesize knowledge, philosophy,
and art. 
