The Stranger (eBook)

A Drama, in Five Acts

August von Kotzebue (Autor)

eBook Download: EPUB

2022
46 Seiten
DigiCat (Verlag)
859-654738383-3 (EAN)

Infos

In "The Stranger," August von Kotzebue crafts a compelling narrative that explores themes of alienation, identity, and the quest for belonging within an often inhospitable society. Written in a melodramatic style characteristic of early 19th-century Romanticism, the play delves into the complex emotional landscapes of its characters, highlighting the contrasts between societal norms and individual desires. Kotzebue's dialogue pulses with intensity, reflecting the burgeoning sentiment of the Enlightenment while navigating the turbulent currents of human experience, making the work both accessible and profoundly impactful within the German literary context of its time. August von Kotzebue was a prolific playwright and novelist whose works shaped the landscape of European theater. His diverse background, which included extensive travels across Europe and interactions with various cultures, undoubtedly informed his understanding of social dynamics and human relationships. Kotzebue's engagement with the zeitgeist of his era, particularly in his examination of the struggles faced by the marginalized, adds layers of depth to "The Stranger," positioning him as a critical voice in pre-Romantic literature. This work is highly recommended for readers interested in early modern drama and those seeking to understand the complexities of human interaction in a rapidly changing world. "The Stranger" not only entertains but also provokes thought, making it a timeless reflection on the nature of belonging and the human condition.

Autor

August von Kotzebue (1761-1819) was a prolific German playwright and writer whose extensive body of work significantly influenced the literature and theatre of his time. Born in Weimar, he became one of the most popular writers of the 18th and early 19th centuries. Kotzebue penned over 200 plays, embracing a wide range of genres from comedies and historical dramas to melodramas. One of his most recognized plays is 'The Stranger' ('Menschenhass und Reue'), first performed in 1789. This celebrated piece of work became famous throughout Europe and contributed to the establishment of bourgeois tragedy as a genre. The Stranger, with its thematic exploration of forgiveness and social isolation, typifies Kotzebue's theatrical style, marked by emotional storytelling and a focus on middle-class sensibilities. While his name might not resonate as loudly as some of his contemporaries' in today's literary discourse, Kotzebue's works were widely translated and celebrated during his lifetime. His literary style is characterized by its accessibility and appeal to a broad audience, echoing sentiments and morals that resonated across class boundaries. Despite a career marked with success, Kotzebue's life ended in tragedy when he was assassinated due to his political entanglements, which served to underscore the turbulent nature of his era. Posthumously, his contribution to the arts remained significant, affecting the currents of European drama and the evolution of theatrical tradition.

Produkt-Details

• Erscheint lt. Verlag: 16.9.2022
• Übersetzer: Benjamin Thompson
• Verlagsort: Prague
• Sprache: englisch
• Themenwelt: Literatur ► Essays / Feuilleton
• Themenwelt: Literatur ► Lyrik / Dramatik ► Dramatik / Theater
• Schlagworte: 18th century Literature • 18th century plays • alienation identity themes • August von Kotzebue works • Classic • classical theater • classic european drama • classic stage plays • complex character dynamics • Drama • dramatic arts • Eighteenth century drama • Emotional Rationality • Enlightenment drama • German Literature • german playwright • german playwrights • German Romanticism play • historical exile influences • historical plays • Human Authenticity • human relationships exploration • Identity Crisis • Literary heritage • philosophical reflection narrative • public domain drama • Social Facades • Societal norms commentary • Sturm und Drang • theatrical literature • tragicomedy small village • witty dialogue introspection