Heinrich Heine

Date of Birth: December 13, 1797

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: February 17, 1856

Biography

Heinrich Heine, born as Christian Johann Heinrich Heine, was a prolific German poet, journalist, essayist, and literary critic. Heine is best known for his early lyric poetry, which was set to music by composers like Robert Schumann and Franz Schubert. His later works, including the satirical epic poem “Deutschland. Ein Wintermärchen” and the unfinished epic “Atta Troll,” showcase his sharp wit and keen political insight. Born into a Jewish family in Düsseldorf, Heine converted to Christianity in 1825, partly to increase his career prospects, as Jews faced significant restrictions in 19th-century Germany. Despite his conversion, Heine often explored themes of Jewish identity in his work. He studied law at the University of Bonn, the University of Göttingen, and the University of Berlin, but his passion for literature ultimately took precedence. Heine spent the latter part of his life in Paris, where he became a central figure in the city’s literary circles. His works often critiqued German politics and society, which led to his works being banned in Germany. Heine’s health began to decline in the late 1840s, and he spent his final years bedridden, suffering from chronic pain. He continued to write until his death in 1856.

5 Interesting Facts about Heinrich Heine

1. Heinrich Heine’s works were banned in his home country of Germany due to his critical views on German society and politics.

2. Heine’s early lyric poems were immensely popular and were set to music by famous composers such as Robert Schumann and Franz Schubert.

3. Heine is considered one of the most significant German poets of the 19th century and a precursor to modernist literature.

4. Heine was a distant relative of Karl Marx, and the two maintained a correspondence over the years.

5. Despite converting to Christianity, Heine remained deeply connected to his Jewish heritage, which influenced much of his work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Heinrich Heine

1. “Where they have burned books, they will end in burning human beings.”

2. “We should forgive our enemies, but not before they are hanged.”

3. “Experience is a good school, but the fees are high.”

4. “Sleep is good, death is better; but of course, the best would be to have never been born at all.”

5. “God will forgive me. It’s his job.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific details about Heinrich Heine’s net worth are not well-documented, it is known that he struggled financially for much of his life and relied on a pension from the French government in his later years.