German writer, scientist, and philosopher (1749–1832) who takes a place among the central intellectual and artistic figures of his day. His poetry and dramatic works provided source material for Beethoven, Schubert, and Berlioz, among others. LS in German, signed “Goethe,” one page, 7.25 x 4.5, January 18, 1806. Letter to Eichstädt. In part: ”As I have to spend some hours here to work out the reviews we talked about, therefore I am asking if the novel Melanie das Findelkind, Berlin 1804 published by Unger in 1804 is already revised. I am just finding that papers on the way.” In very good to fine condition, with two vertical folds, marginal binding holes to left edge, a few light creases, and toning to bottom edge.
Goethe’s brief letter expresses his apparent desire to have the Friederike Helene Unger novel, Melanie das Findelkind, undergo some type of revision. The reason why, however, is unclear, as over time her book and one by Goethe have become intertwined in literary circles. Some critics cite Goethe’s work, Wilhelm Meister, as having been an inspiration to Unger, creating a “female” equivalent of Goethe’s male novel of formation. Perhaps Goethe was displeased with the comparison or interpretation of her work? An interesting, if not mildly befuddling, piece of correspondence from the philosophical giant. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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