The Young Goethe: 1749-1775

A newly qualified doctor of law, Goethe views his invitation to the Weimar court in 1775 as a chance to leave the past behind—a past that has already seen two literary triumphs. This documentary traces Goethe’s early years, looking at his education, legal training, love affairs, and formative experiences. Using diary accounts, original manuscripts, location footage, period paintings, and readings from his works, the program highlights the writing of his popular play, Götz von Berlichingen, and his wildly successful novel, The Sorrows of Young Werther. The Sturm und Drang movement is discussed, as well as Goethe’s friendship with writer and philosopher Johann Gottfried Herder.