Karl Gutzkow
Karl Gutzkow was a German author born in 1811, known for his provocative literary works. He began his education in philosophy and theology at the University of Berlin before completing his studies at the University of Heidelberg, where he earned his Ph.D. in 1832. Gutzkow's early writing career involved contributions to various literary magazines, and his first notable novel, "Briefe eines Narren an eine Närrin," sparked controversy and faced bans in certain regions. His 1835 work, "Wally, die Zweiflerin," further intensified disputes, leading to his brief imprisonment and subsequent relocation to Hamburg.
In Hamburg, Gutzkow continued to write prolifically and also engaged in theatrical endeavors. His personal life saw significant changes, including the death of his first wife and a second marriage that resulted in three children. However, by the 1870s, he began to experience psychological issues that affected his work. Gutzkow's life ended in 1878 due to a fire in his home, marking the close of a tumultuous yet impactful literary career. His contributions to literature remain noteworthy for their bold themes and the controversies they inspired.
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Karl Gutzkow
Author
- Born: March 17, 1811
- Birthplace: Berlin, Prussia (now in Germany)
- Died: December 16, 1878
- Place of death: Sachsenhausen, Frankfurt am Main
Biography
Karl Gutzkow was born in Germany in 1811. His father was a bricklayer. After attending local schools, Gutzkow began to attend school at a University in Berlin, where he studied philosophy and theology. Gutzkow left Berlin and finished his education at the University of Heidelberg. After his graduation, Gutzkow began to work and write for a literature magazine for a short time before earning his Ph.D. in Jena in 1832.
Gutzkow continued to write for a number of journals and newspapers when his 1932 novel, Briefe eines Narren an eine Närrin was published. This novel, like many of Gutzkow’s works, would create controversy and would be banned in some places.
Gutzkow’s 1835 novel Wally, die Zweiflerin would create more controversy and problems in Gutzkow’s life. He spent a short time in prison and was later moved to Hamburg. In Hamburg, Gutzkow continued his literary pursuits and wrote for journals and publications. In the 1840’s, Gutzkow traveled to Paris and continued to write on a regular basis. Towards the end of the decade his first wife passed away, and he married another woman with whom he had three children.
In the years that followed, Gutzkow continued to write novels and began to do some work in the theater. On occasion, a few feuds between Gutzkow and other authors broke out, and in 1873 slowly developing psychological problems began to take their toll on the writer. Gutzkow died in 1878 when a fire broke out in his home.