Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (August 28, 1749 – March 22, 1832) was a German novelist, playwright, poet, and statesman who has been described as Germany’s William Shakespeare. Having achieved both literary and commercial success in his lifetime, Goethe remains one of the most influential figures in modern era literature.
Fast Facts: Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Known For: Figurehead of Sturm und Drang and Weimar Classicism literary movements
Born: August 28, 1749 in Frankfurt, Germany
Parents: Johann Kaspar Goethe, Katharina Elisabeth née Textor
Died: March 22, 1832 in Weimar, Germany
Education: Leipzig University, University of Strasbourg
Selected Published Works: Faust I (1808), Faust II (1832), Sorrows of Young Werther (1774), Wilhelm Meister’s Apprenticeship (1796), Wilhelm Meister’s Journey Years (1821)
Spouse: Christiane Vulpius
Children: Julius August Walther (four others died young)
Notable Quote: “Fortunately, people can comprehend only a certain degree of misfortune; anything beyond that either destroys them or leaves them indifferent."