In 'Maxims and Reflections,' the esteemed German poet and philosopher Johann Wolfgang von Goethe distills his life’s wisdom into a collection of thought-provoking aphorisms. Each maxim offers a glimpse into the depths of human experience, touching on themes of love, nature, and the quest for meaning. Goethe's reflections challenge readers to examine their own beliefs and perceptions, often leading to profound realizations. This timeless work serves as both a mirror and a guide, encouraging introspection and growth. Dive into Goethe's world and discover insights that resonate across ages, leaving you eager to ponder the very essence of existence.
By Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
Published: 2017
"The highest goal of culture is to awaken the creative spirit in each individual; to find in every soul a treasure waiting to be discovered."
The passing thoughts Goethe jotted down during his long, varied, and hectic life -- thankfully preserved on theater programs, visiting cards, draft manuscripts, and bills -- show him to be the last true "Renaissance man" of Europe. Although employed as a privy councillor at the Duke of Weimar's court, he also painted; directed plays; carried out research in the classics, anatomy, botany, and optics; and still found time to produce masterpieces in every literary genre. His 1,413 maxims and reflections reveal not only some of his deepest thoughts on art, ethics, literature, and natural science but also his immediate reactions to books, chance encounters, and his administrative work. With freshness and immediacy, Maxims and Reflections vividly conjures up Goethe the man and the genius.
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“The highest goal of culture is to awaken the creative spirit in each individual; to find in every soul a treasure waiting to be discovered.”
Maxims and Reflections
By Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) was a German poet, playwright, and novelist, widely regarded as one of the greatest figures in Western literature. His most notable works include the tragic play 'Faust,' the novel 'The Sorrows of Young Werther,' and the poetic cycle 'West-östlicher Divan.' Goethe's writing is characterized by its exploration of human emotion, nature, and the interplay between individual experience and universal themes. His style blends classicism and romanticism, reflecting a deep engagement with philosophy and art.
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