About this ebook
A modern translation of "The Seven Legends" (sieben Legenden) by Gottfried Keller. The Seven Legends is a novella cycle initially published in 1872 but conceived during the author's time in Berlin. This slim work established Keller's reputation in Germany, although it sparked controversy. The stories study several themes through allegorical tales set in the early Christian era. These stories study into the lives and virtues of characters who often defy social norms, illustrating moral and spiritual lessons through their extraordinary experiences. The Legends' centerpiece is the Virgin Mary, depicted in an interpretation and form divergent from both Catholic and Protestant viewpoints. She assumes the role of the "magna mater of earthly and affectionate love," embodying a syncretic deity merging elements of Paganism and Christianity into a feminine trinity of love or a post Christian Mother Earth. While Theodor Fontane found it repugnant for deviating from the natural simplicity of the legend form, Eduard Mörike was captivated by it. In this collection of allegorical tales, Keller delves into the realms of myth and spirituality. One prominent legend features Eugenia, an educated and beautiful Roman girl who, in order to escape social constraints, disguises herself as a man and enters a convent. Her intellectual pursuits and interactions with the young proconsul Aquilinus show themes of gender roles, education, and the quest for personal freedom. Eugenia's journey finally leads to a spiritual transformation that emphasizes the value of inner virtue over outward appearances. Another story concerns Count Gebizo and his virtuous wife, Bertrade. Once wealthy and charitable, Gebizo's excessive generosity plunges him into poverty. In a desperate attempt to regain his fortune, he encounters a sinister stranger who offers him wealth in exchange for his wife. This story shows themes of faith, temptation, and redemption as Bertrade's unwavering virtue finally triumphs over the devil's deception, demonstrating the power of righteousness and divine intervention. The final legend tells the story of Beatrix, a nun who, driven by worldly desires, leaves her convent only to be seduced by a knight. Her later return to the convent and miraculous experiences show themes of repentance, divine grace, and the lasting power of faith. Beatrix's transformation from a restless soul to a devoted servant of God illustrates the possibility of redemption and the deep effects of spiritual commitment. The modern translation of Seven Legends is accompanied by supporting material on Keller's life, work, and intellectual setting. Nietzsche considered Keller to be one of the greatest living poets of his time. yet, his works are rarely found in other languages, so most people today are unaware of who he was or why he was major. For Seven Legends, Keller's German prose is rendered in readable modern English and placed within its wider intellectual context. The translation of Seven Legends works directly from Keller's manuscripts and this new translation delivers literary excellence and scholarly depth with supporting materials. This presentation of Seven Legends adds an afterword tracing Keller's intellectual relationship with Nietzsche, revealing the detailed dialogue between two of the period's most influential minds. The supporting chronology for Seven Legends connects the major events of Keller's life with his published works, and a detailed index provides an guide to his complete writings.
A modern translation of "The Seven Legends" (sieben Legenden) by Gottfried Keller. The Seven Legends is a novella cycle initially published in 1872 but conceived during the author's time in Berlin. This slim work established Keller's reputation in Germany, although it sparked controversy. The sto...
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About the author
Gottfried Keller (1819 to 1890) was a Swiss poet, novelist, and short story writer who also served as a public official in Zurich. His best known books include Green Henry and the story cycle The People of Seldwyla, alongside poetry, diaries, letters, and political prose.
Gottfried Keller (1819 to 1890) was a Swiss poet, novelist, and short story writer who also served as a public official in Zurich. His best known books include Green Henry and the story cycle The People of Seldwyla, alongside poetry, diaries, letters, and political prose.
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