The Inspiration Motif in the Works of Franz Grillparzer: With special consideration of 'Libussa'

In: Springer eBook Collection

Abstract

I. Citizen of Weimar -- Grillparzer and the humanistic tradition — the heritage of enlightened Josephinism — Kant's influence in Austria — the classical tradition and the poet's views on philosophy, politics and art. -- II. Grillparzer and the Nineteenth Century -- The impact of the romantic school — individualism and the emphasis of the emotions — the classical experience and the rise of materialism — the problem of free will — Grillparzer's agreement and conflict with his day. -- III. The Contact with Schopenhauer -- The scientific and the contemplative approach to the world — similarity in aesthetic principles — the imitation of nature and the function of art — rejection of history and the idea of progress — the problem of justice and the state. -- IV. Inspiration —' sammlung' and 'Begeisterung' -- Critical estimates of the inspiration theme — analysis of the inspiration motif in the works of Grillparzer with the exception of 'Libussa'. -- The Diaries -- The Prose Writings -- The Poems -- Letters and Documents -- Youthful Attempts. Dramatic Plans and Fragments -- The Dramas -- Grillparzer's Conversations -- The Rationalistic and Intuitive Components of Inspiration -- Grillparzer's affinity with the English romanticists: Wordsworth, Byron, Shelley, Keats, De Quincey — the inspiration motif and the poet's relationship to the eighteenth and the nineteenth century. -- V. 'Libussa' — the Last Phase of Inspiration -- The vital fifth act — short history of the criticism of the drama — the purported influence of Hegel and Kant — the collectivist view — political ideas in the play — 'Libussa' interpreted in the light of Grillpar-zer's inspiration concept — inspiration and Grillpar-zer's legacy on human destiny. -- >Conclusion.