Johann Fischart
Johann Fischart was a notable German writer of the late 16th century, recognized for his contributions to literature during the Counter-Reformation. Born in Germany around the mid-1500s, Fischart received his education in Worms, where he was influenced by his cousin, Kaspar Scheid, the school’s headmaster. His travels across Europe, particularly to France, England, Italy, and the Netherlands, enriched his literary perspective. From 1575 to 1581, he worked with his brother-in-law, a printer, and later held a position as a lawyer for the imperial court of appeal. Fischart's literary talents shone through his satirical writings, which often critiqued societal norms and behaviors with an anti-Catholic stance. He adeptly employed both prose and verse, showcasing his wit and eloquence while addressing the complexities of human beliefs. Additionally, Fischart translated significant works by authors such as François Rabelais, further demonstrating his literary prowess. He died around 1590 in Forbach, where he had also served as a magistrate.
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Johann Fischart
Satirist
- Born: c. 1546
- Birthplace: Strasbourg, Germany
- Died: c. 1590
Biography
Johann Fischart was born in mid-sixteenth century Germany. He was educated at Worms, at the house of Kaspar Scheid, who is recognized as Fischart’s cousin and the school’s headmaster. Fischart traveled a great deal to other European countries, particularly to France, England, Italy, and the Netherlands.
From 1575 to 1581, Fischart lived with and possibly worked for his brother-in-law, who was a printer. Records also show that Fischart worked as a lawyer for the imperial court of appeal. In 1583, Fischart married and obtained a position as magistrate at Forbach, which was near Saarbrucken. It was here that Fischart died around 1590.
Fischart studied ancient literature, theology, and law. His greatest talents, however, lay in his skill as a writer. Fischart was extremely popular in his day, using his pen to create satirical pieces about the public and private behaviors of his time, the period of the Counter-Reformation. Many of his pieces carry an anti-Catholic tone. He wrote in prose and verse, skilled in both genres.
Fischart’s prose is known to indulge in daring witticisms and caricatures with the serious purpose of revealing the perversities of human beliefs and behaviors. His poetry is characterized with eloquence and symbolic language. In addition to his own writings, Fischart translated works by François Rabelais and a Dutch writer, Philip van Marnix.