Christoph Martin Wieland

Date of Birth: September 5, 1733

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: January 20, 1813

Biography

Christoph Martin Wieland was a prominent German poet, writer, and translator of the 18th century. Born on September 5, 1733, in Oberholzheim, Germany, Wieland became one of the leading figures of the German Enlightenment. His education began at the monastery school in Bebenhausen and later continued at the University of Tübingen, where he studied law and philosophy. Wieland’s literary career began with his poetry, but he soon expanded into prose, drama, and translation, becoming well-known for his versatility and innovation. Wieland’s works are characterized by their wit, elegance, and philosophical depth. Some of his most famous works include the novel “The History of Agathon,” which is considered one of the first Bildungsroman, or coming-of-age stories, and the epic poem “Oberon,” which was widely praised for its imaginative storytelling and lyrical beauty. Throughout his life, Wieland was also an active translator, bringing many classical works into the German language, including those of Shakespeare and Horace. He was appointed as a professor of philosophy at the University of Erfurt in 1769, and later moved to Weimar, where he became a central figure in the intellectual circle that included Goethe and Schiller. Despite his success, Wieland was known for his modesty and dedication to his craft. He passed away on January 20, 1813, in Weimar, leaving behind a rich legacy that influenced many future generations of writers and thinkers.

5 Interesting Facts about Christoph Martin Wieland

1. Christoph Martin Wieland was one of the first German writers to introduce the novel as a literary form.

2. His work “Oberon” was adapted into an opera by the composer Carl Maria von Weber.

3. Wieland founded and edited the literary journal “Der Teutsche Merkur,” which became an important platform for Enlightenment ideas.

4. He was a mentor to Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and played a significant role in Goethe’s development as a writer.

5. Wieland translated Shakespeare’s works into German, making them accessible to a broader audience in Germany.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Christoph Martin Wieland

1. “The art of writing is the art of discovering what you believe.”

2. “True greatness consists in being great in little things.”

3. “The man who has no imagination has no wings.”

4. “Nature never deceives us; it is we who deceive ourselves.”

5. “Every man is the architect of his own fortune.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Christoph Martin Wieland’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but he was financially comfortable due to his success as a writer, translator, and professor.

Children

Christoph Martin Wieland had several children with his wife Anna Dorothea von Hillenbrand. Their children included: 1. Sophie Brentano (née Wieland), who became a writer. 2. Luise Wieland, who married the publisher and bookseller Georg Joachim Göschen. 3. Susanna Maria Wieland, who also pursued literary interests.