Hugo von Hofmannsthal

Date of Birth: February 1, 1874

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: July 15, 1929

Biography

Hugo von Hofmannsthal was an influential Austrian novelist, librettist, poet, dramatist, narrator, and essayist born on February 1, 1874, in Vienna, Austria. He was a key figure in the cultural and literary life of Vienna during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing significantly to the literary movement known as the Viennese Modernism. Hofmannsthal was well-known for his collaborations with composer Richard Strauss, producing numerous operatic librettos that have become staples in the operatic repertoire, including “Elektra,” “Der Rosenkavalier,” and “Ariadne auf Naxos.” His literary career began early; he published his first poem at the age of 16 under the pseudonym Loris. Hofmannsthal was a contemporary of significant literary figures like Arthur Schnitzler and Stefan George, and his works often explored themes of existential angst, the fragility of human identity, and the complexities of communication. He is perhaps best known for his lyric poetry and his plays, which reflect his deep engagement with European cultural and philosophical traditions. Hofmannsthal’s later works reflect his growing preoccupation with the cultural and social disintegration that he perceived in the early 20th century. His prose works, such as the essay “The Lord Chandos Letter,” are considered seminal texts in modernist literature. Hugo von Hofmannsthal passed away on July 15, 1929, in Rodaun, a district of Vienna.

5 Interesting Facts about Hugo von Hofmannsthal

1. Hugo von Hofmannsthal was a prodigy, publishing his first poem at the age of 16 under the pseudonym Loris.

2. He collaborated with famous composer Richard Strauss on multiple operas, including “Der Rosenkavalier” and “Elektra.”

3. His essay “The Lord Chandos Letter” is considered a cornerstone of modernist literature, exploring themes of linguistic breakdown and existential crisis.

4. Hofmannsthal was a key figure in the Viennese Modernism movement, influencing literature, theatre, and opera.

5. He was a contemporary and friend of other significant literary figures, such as Arthur Schnitzler and Stefan George.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hugo von Hofmannsthal

1. “Reality lies in the greatest enchantment you have ever experienced.”

2. “Words are not the things they name; they are only the signs of those things.”

3. “Depth must be hidden. Where? On the surface.”

4. “The imagination is an inner echo. It is the liberty of the mind.”

5. “A poem is never finished, only abandoned.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

There is no reliable information available regarding Hugo von Hofmannsthal’s highest net worth achieved during his lifetime.

Children

Hugo von Hofmannsthal had three children with his wife, Gertrud Schlesinger: 1. Christiane von Hofmannsthal (1902-1987) 2. Franz von Hofmannsthal (1903-1929) 3. Raimund von Hofmannsthal (1906-1974)