Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Date of Birth: August 28, 1749

Zodiac Sign: Virgo

Date of Death: March 22, 1832

Biography

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a German writer, poet, playwright, and novelist, born on August 28, 1749, in Frankfurt am Main, Holy Roman Empire. He is considered one of the greatest literary figures in Western history. Goethe was a polymath who made significant contributions not only to literature but also to fields such as science, philosophy, and civil service. His most famous work, “Faust,” is a tragic play that has left an indelible mark on literature and culture. Goethe’s work encompassed a wide range of genres and styles, reflecting his deep intellectual curiosity and his engagement with the human condition. Goethe’s early education was extensive and diverse, including subjects such as languages, literature, and law, the latter of which he pursued at university. His literary career began with the publication of “The Sorrows of Young Werther” in 1774, a novel that became an international sensation and established his reputation as a leading writer of his time. Goethe’s literary achievements are vast, including works like “Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship,” “Elective Affinities,” and various collections of poetry. In addition to his literary endeavors, Goethe held several important administrative positions in the Duchy of Saxe-Weimar, where he played a key role in the cultural and political life of the region. He was also a prolific correspondent, maintaining friendships and intellectual exchanges with many of the leading figures of his era, such as Friedrich Schiller, with whom he had a particularly close and fruitful collaboration. Goethe passed away on March 22, 1832, in Weimar, leaving behind a monumental legacy that continues to influence literature and thought to this day.

5 Interesting Facts about Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

1. Goethe’s “The Sorrows of Young Werther” sparked a wave of romanticism and even led to a series of copycat suicides, known as the “Werther effect.”

2. He was heavily involved in the scientific study of color and wrote a theory of color, which opposed Isaac Newton’s.

3. Goethe was an accomplished amateur artist and made numerous sketches and drawings throughout his life.

4. He served as a Privy Councilor in the Duchy of Saxe-Weimar and was instrumental in cultural reforms in the region.

5. Goethe had a lifelong interest in botany and wrote “Metamorphosis of Plants,” which explored the form and function of plant structures.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

1. “Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Willing is not enough; we must do.”

2. “He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.”

3. “None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free.”

4. “A man sees in the world what he carries in his heart.”

5. “Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While exact figures are difficult to ascertain for historical figures, Goethe was relatively affluent due to his administrative positions, literary success, and noble patronage. Adjusting for modern standards, his wealth would be significant, though a precise net worth is not documented.

Children

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe had five children with his long-term partner and later wife, Christiane Vulpius. However, only one of his children, August von Goethe, survived into adulthood.