Iphigenia in Tauris (eBook)

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749–1832) stands as a towering figure in Western literature. As a key representative of the Sturm und Drang literary movement, his works reflect the transition from the Enlightenment to Romanticism. Known for his versatile literary creations, Goethe's opus encompasses poetry, prose, drama, and extensive scientific literature. 'Iphigenia in Tauris'—an adaption of Euripides' work—is an excellent instantiation of his classical leanings, showcasing his preoccupation with humanism, freedom, and the conflicts between civilization and nature. By employing a unique blend of poetic beauty and moral depth, Goethe reinterpreted the Greek tragedy through the lens of an 18th-century worldview. Throughout his oeuvre, Goethe explored the human condition and the struggle for self-determination, with the belief that true understanding can arise only from the union of emotional depth and intellectual rigor. Besides 'Iphigenia', his notable works include 'The Sorrows of Young Werther', which emblemized the Romantic ideal of the suffering hero, and 'Faust', a dramatic duology that probes the complexities of the human spirit. Goethe's literary style is characterized by its rich imaginative power and profound philosophical insights, exerting a lasting influence on both contemporary and subsequent literary movements. His work has precipitated wide-ranging discussions in literary criticism, philosophy, and aesthetics, establishing him as a perennial figure in the pantheon of world literature.