Egmont

Goethe started working on this play in 1775, but only finished it in 1787. This makes it very hard to classify and it has both elements of Sturm und Drang as well as classicism. Moreover, it is heavily influenced by Shakespeare, both due to the subject matter and structure as well as through intertextual references and almost direct quotes.

The play is set in 16th century Brussels during the reformation. The protagonist, Egmont, is a Dutch count in the Spanish Netherlands. The Protestants are fighting against Spanish Rule. Egmont is very popular among the people, but he is also respected by the Spanish king and a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece. There is unrest in the Low Countries, but Egmont feels safe and does not flee even show more though he is warned. When the king sends the cruel and despotic Duke of Alba, Egmont agrees to meet him, but he is captured. His mistress Clärchen tries to save him and to rouse the people, but it is futile.

I expected this play to be hard to understand because I know next to nothing about the historical background, but it was accessible and not hard at all. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I did a bit of background reading to understand the basics and then I was swept up in this historic tale. I was moved by Egmont's fate and fascinated by the different characters appearing in the story. show less

This was quite a play by Goethe. He manages to carefully describe and illustrate the principal character and the other primary players at work in this dramatic representation. Goethe is adept in his speeches, especially towards the end, and there is something momentous about the language in Act V that strikes a chord, resonates, with me. This is a fine play and I recommend it to those interested in drama or in Goethe's oeuvre.

3.75 stars.

Good condition.