Goethe, Schauen und Glauben

The text explores various themes and interpretations related to Goethe's works. It begins with discussions on invention and discovery, examining Mignon's wings and the concept of a "winged genius" in relation to Goethe's "Der Zauberflöte." The analysis of Euphorion's form and Mephisto's serious humor follows. The second section delves into perception and belief, highlighting Goethe's conversation with Johannes Daniel Falk and the themes in "Die Wahlverwandtschaften." The third part addresses duality, focusing on the theological aspects of Goethe's ballads and the interplay between love and tragedy in the context of Helena. The dialogue between genders is also explored. The fourth section reflects on artistry and the role of the poet, considering the demonic spirit of Goethe's genius and the medieval perspective on "Faust." Finally, the text discusses the dignity of the rejected in "Faust," Shakespeare's influence on Goethe, and the complexities of redemption in the conclusion of "Faust." Throughout, the work emphasizes Goethe's creative process and the provisional nature of artistic solutions. The annotation concludes with a register and backmatter, encapsulating the depth of Goethe's literary contributions.