Gottfried Keller
Gottfried Keller was a Swiss poet and writer of German literature. He is best known for his novel 'Green Henry' (German: 'Der grüne Heinrich') and his short stories, which are considered some of the finest in the German language.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Green Henry
The Life and Adventures of a Young Artist
"Green Henry" is a semi-autobiographical novel that chronicles the life of a young man who dreams of becoming a painter but faces countless obstacles on his journey. The protagonist leaves his Swiss village and travels to Munich to study art, but his lack of discipline and financial difficulties force him to return home. After his mother's death, he begins to reassess his life and eventually finds his place in society. The novel explores themes of identity, ambition, and the struggle between individual desires and societal expectations.
The 612th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
2. The People Of Seldwyla
Six Novellas
Set in a fictional Swiss town, this collection of stories delves into the lives of its quirky and often flawed inhabitants, capturing the essence of human nature with humor and insight. Through a series of interconnected tales, the narrative explores themes of love, ambition, and folly, painting a vivid picture of a community where personal aspirations and societal norms frequently clash. The characters, each with their unique idiosyncrasies, navigate life's challenges, revealing the complexities and contradictions of small-town life in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The 3637th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Bookshop.org or Amazon -
3. Tales
People of Seldwyla
The book is a collection of novellas and stories that explore the complexities of human nature, morality, and social life in the 19th-century German-speaking world. Through a blend of realism and poetic allegory, the narratives delve into the lives of characters from various social strata, examining their personal dilemmas, societal constraints, and quests for individuality. The stories often highlight the tension between personal desires and communal responsibilities, and they are infused with themes of love, justice, and the transformative power of art. The author's keen observation and subtle humor bring to life the rich tapestry of human experiences, making the work a timeless reflection on the human condition.
The 7215th Greatest Book of All TimePurchase from Amazon
