Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
(1749–1832)

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is most widely remembered for his version of the Faust legend, Faust Part I (1808) and Faust Part II (1833). According to legend, Faust sold his soul to the Devil in exchange for youth, knowledge, and magical powers. Goethe's version of the legendary Faust transforms him into a sympathetic character. Part II was published a year after Goethe's death and reflects the wisdom he had gained throughout his life.

Goethe also wrote many other works, his career commencing with the publication of The Sorrows of Young Werther (1774), which earned him international fame. In addition to being a writer, Goethe was a also a scientist, painter, statesman, philosopher, and educator. He served as the duke of Weimar's chief minister for ten years. In 1786, he spent two years traveling, painting, and studying. Upon returning to Weimar, he devoted much of his time to scientific studies. He later married Christine Vulpus with whom he had several children, and he developed a close friendship with writer Friedrich von Schiller from whom he gained invaluable advice and assistance.

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