by Heinrich von Kleist
Novella
(German title: Michael Kohlhaas)
"Michael Kohlhaas" is a novella written
by famed writer Heinrich von Kleist (1777-1811). The story is based upon
the historical figure of Hans Kohlhase, a 16th century merchant who turned
violent after being attacked and victimized by the authorities. As a result,
he gathered around him a band of criminals and spread terror throughout
the whole of Saxony.
"The novella is a good example of Kleist's
excellent narrative art: The action can be summed up in a few words, such
as the formula for this story, given expressly on its first page: 'His
sense of justice made him a robber and a murderer.' There is no leisurely
exposition of time, place, or situation; all the necessary elements are
given concisely in the first sentences. The action develops logically,
with effective use of retardation and climax, but without disturbing episodes;
and the reader is never permitted to forget the central theme. The descriptive
element is realistic, with only pertinent details swiftly presented, often
in parentheses, while the action moves on. The characterization is skilfully
indirect, through unconscious action and speech. The author does not shun
the trivial or even the repulsive in detail, nor does he fear the most
tragic catastrophes ... The whole work in all its parts is firmly and
finely forged by a master workman.
Kleist has remained a solitary figure in German
literature. Owing little to the dominant literary influences of his day,
he has also found few imitators. Two generations passed before he began
to come into his heritage of legitimate fame. Now ... his place is well
assured among the greatest dramatic and narrative authors of Germany."
(John S. Nollen)
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ISBN: 9781595690760
/ 159569076X
Language: English
Subjects: Fiction
(German Classics, Middle Age, Saxony, Brandenburg, Prussia, History, Novella,
Chronicle)
Pages: 104
Book Type:
5.5 x 8.5 in, Perfect Bound - Paperback
ORDER:
In the US:
Mondial
Bookstore
Amazon.com
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In the UK:
Amazon.co.uk
In Canada:
Amazon.ca
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