Description: The emergence of a new theory of literature in the German Romantic period constituted a decisive turning point in the history of criticism. A view of the literary work and the artistic process developed that diverged sharply from the dominant classicist understanding of aesthetics and poetics. It recognized the infinite changeablility of genres, and asserted the rights of genius and creative imagination. Professor Behler provides a new account of this crucial movement, illustrating each theoretical topic with close reference to a characteristic work by a major writer of the period.
Review Quotes: "...Behler's presentation of the principle themes, interests, and projects of the Jena Romantics and their counterparts in Berlin is thorough and well-grounded. The book's six chapters offer a rich and often finely nuanced portrayal of the blend of philosophy and literature, antiquarian interest and missionary zeal, clear-eyed awareness of concrete reality and fantastic specualtion, that in various ways informs the perspective of early Romanticism." German Quarterly