The Gods of Greece by Friedrich Schiller
"The Gods of Greece" is a poem by Friedrich Schiller, first published in 1788, which reflects his admiration for ancient Greek culture and philosophy. In this work, Schiller contrasts the idealized values of ancient Greece—such as beauty, truth, and harmony—with what he perceives as the more restrictive nature of Christianity. This contrasts serves to highlight his belief in the potential for humanity to achieve peace and fulfillment through self-discovery and philosophical inquiry. Schiller’s writing is characterized by a focus on central themes, aiming to resonate with both the emotions and intellect of the reader, much like the thinkers of ancient Greece whom he revered.
Over time, Schiller revised "The Gods of Greece," notably removing references to Christianity after its initial critical reception. His evolution as a poet is evident as he transitioned from passionate expressions to a more classical style that emphasizes simplicity and clarity. This poem exemplifies Schiller’s belief in the power of human potential and his hope for a brighter future, making it a significant piece in the exploration of philosophical and cultural ideals from the perspective of an 18th-century thinker.
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The Gods of Greece by Friedrich Schiller
Excerpted from an article in Magill’s Survey of World Literature, Revised Edition
First published: “Die Götter Griechenlands,” 1788 (collected in The Poems of Schiller, 1851)
Type of work: Poems
The Work
Schiller’s second period witnessed a number of fine poems, of which “The Gods of Greece” is typical. It was first published in the March, 1788, issue of Der Teutsche Merkur. Schiller at this time was still full of rebellious spirit. He looked back to ancient Greece, idealizing the past. He contrasted its attempt to help humanity find peace with itself to the soulless concept of Christianity. Schiller later revised the poem in 1793, after its critical reception, by eliminating the passages on Christianity.
Schiller’s poetry usually coalesced around a central tenet or idea. His aim was to appeal to the ear and the mind. Like the ancient Greek thinkers whom he admired, Schiller posed philosophical questions in his poetry about what is good, beautiful, and true in life and proceeded to answer them. The poet believed fully in humanity and anticipated a better future. Schiller grew as a poet, and his style changed from passionate and lyrical exultations to a classical mastery of simplicity and clarity.
Bibliography
Garland, H. B. Schiller: The Dramatic Writer. Oxford, England: Clarendon Press, 1969.
Hart, Gail K. Friedrich Schiller: Crime, Aesthetics, and the Poetics of Punishment. Dover: University of Delaware Press, 2005.
Miller, R. D. Schiller and the Ideal of Freedom. Oxford, England: Clarendon Press, 1970.
Nevinson, Henry W. Life of Friedrich Schiller. Whitefish, Mont.: Kessinger, 2007.
Sharpe, Lesley. Schiller and the Historical Character: Presentation and Interpretation in the Historiographical Works and in the Historical Dramas. New York: Oxford University Press, 1982.
Simons, John D. Friedrich Schiller. Boston: Twayne, 1981.
Thomas, Calvin. The Life and Works of Friedrich Schiller. Whitefish, Mont.: Kessinger, 2004.
Ugrinsky, Alexej, ed. Friedrich von Schiller and the Drama of Human Existence. New York: Greenwood Press, 1988.