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Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) stands as a towering figure in world literature and German intellectual history. His contributions span poetry, drama, literature, theology, humanism, and science. Born in Frankfurt, Goethe's early work, 'The Sorrows of Young Werther' (1774), captured the Sturm und Drang (Storm and Stress) movement's spirit, appealing to the emotional sensibilities of the time and establishing him as a celebrated author at a young age. Goethe's magnum opus, 'Faust,' which he worked on throughout his life, remains a seminal text in exploring human fallibility and the search for knowledge and enlightenment. His oeuvre extends beyond pure literature, as seen in 'The Man Who Was Goethe: Memoirs, Letters & Essays' which compiles his biographical insights and intellectual correspondence that enlighten his character and the diverse interests that fueled his creativity. His literary style seamlessly blends classical motifs with individual expression, and his works often reflect his quest for understanding and the synthesis of art and life. As a statesman and prolific writer, Goethe's legacy also encompasses his influence on the Weimar Classicism movement, his extensive scientific inquiries, particularly in optics and morphology, and his enduring impact on various philosophical strands, including existentialism and humanism. His work not only shaped German literature but also profoundly affected the literary canon of Western culture.
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