Ewald von Kleist
Ewald von Kleist was an 18th-century German poet and military officer, born in 1715 in Zeblin, Pomerania, which is now part of Poland. He received a solid education, attending a Jesuit school and later enrolling at the University of Königsberg to study law and mathematics. After graduating, Kleist joined the Danish army and rapidly advanced through the ranks, eventually becoming a major by 1756. His military career was marked by notable participation in significant battles, including Mollwitz and Kunersdorf, where he was mortally wounded in 1759.
Kleist is recognized for his literary contributions, particularly his poem "Der Frühling" (1749), which showcases his poetic talent and sensitivity to nature. He also wrote various odes, idylls, and elegies, as well as a short epic poem celebrating heroism. His poetic works continued to be published posthumously, reflecting his enduring influence in German literature. His connections with contemporary artists, such as the dramatist Gotthold Ephraim Lessing, provided him with a creative outlet amidst his military obligations. Overall, Kleist's legacy is a blend of his artistic achievements and his experiences as a soldier.
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Ewald von Kleist
Poet
- Born: March 7, 1715
- Birthplace: Zeblin, Pomerania (now Poland)
- Died: August 24, 1759
Biography
Ewald von Kleist was born in 1715, at Zeblin, Pomerania (now Poland). He attended a Jesuit school in Deutschkrona, and another school in Gdańsk. In 1731, he enrolled at the University of Königsberg, where he studied law and mathematics. Following his graduation, Kleist entered the Danish army, becoming an officer in 1736. Four years later, he was sent to fight in Prussia and attained the rank of lieutenant. During this period, Kleist met poet J.W. L. Gleim, who interested him in poetry.
Kleist distinguished himself during two conflicts in 1741, first at the battle of Mollwitz, and again at the siege of Niesse. As a result of his service, Kleist was promoted to the rank of captain in 1749, and was later advanced to the rank of major in 1756. While he was stationed at Leipzig during the winter of 1757 and 1758, he became acquainted with the German dramatist Gotthold Ephraim Lessing. Kleist found some relief from his military duties in Lessing’s company. On August 12, 1759, Kleist was mortally wounded at the battle of Kunersdorf, and he died twelve days later.
Kleist is best known for Der Frühling (1749), a poem written in hexameter. He also wrote a number of odes, idylls, and elegies, as well as a short epic poem about two Greek friends who die a heroic death for their country. He published two collections of poetry in 1756 and 1758. Kleist’s description of nature demonstrates a genuine sensitivity for his subject and a real poetic intellect. Other volumes of Kleist’s work were published posthumously.