Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Published: 2024-05-09
Total Pages: 248
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"In the first respect, I will only remind you of the absolute philosophical tragedy, of Goethe's Faust, in which, on the one hand, the lack of satisfaction in science, on the other hand, the liveliness of world life and earthly enjoyment, in general, the tragically attempted mediation of subjective knowledge and striving with the absolute, in its essence and appearance, gives a breadth of content that no other dramatic poet has dared to encompass in one and the same work before." - Hegel, Lectures on Aesthetics A new translation into modern American English of Goethe's 1808 & 1831 Faust, unabridged containing parts I and II. This literal translation favors accuracy to provide the reader with the original meaning as best as possible. This edition contains an Afterword by the Translator, a Timeline of Goethe’s Life & Works and a Glossary of Philosophic Terminology used by Goethe. Composed over 60 years, Faust is Goethe's magnum opus, one of the greatest pieces of literature ever written. The play tells the story of Faust, a disillusioned scholar who makes a pact with the devil, Mephistopheles, in search of unlimited knowledge and boundless experience. Through Faust's journey, Goethe explores themes of ambition, desire, redemption, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. The play encompasses a vast range of human experiences, from love and desire to ambition and remorse, offering profound insights into the complexities of human nature. "Faust" is revered for its poetic language, philosophical depth, and its exploration of existential questions. Goethe himself regarded it as his greatest achievement, underscoring its significance in his literary legacy and its enduring influence on subsequent generations of writers and thinkers.