Sigmund von Birken
Sigmund von Birken was a notable German Baroque writer born in Wildstein, Germany, around the early seventeenth century. He faced early challenges, including the displacement of his family due to their faith, which led them to Nürnberg. Birken began his education in law and philosophy at the University of Jena but was unable to complete his studies due to financial constraints. In 1655, he was appointed as the imperial record keeper to Emperor Fernando III, a position that allowed him to collect legal documents and literary works, significantly elevating his social standing. He married Magdalena Muelet in 1658, although their marriage was reportedly unhappy.
Birken played a pivotal role in reviving the Pegnesischen Blumenorden, which recognized literary talents and contributed to a greater appreciation for literature in Germany. His connections within the literary community also led him to join the Fruitful Society, the first organization dedicated to promoting the German language. Throughout his life, Birken corresponded with many prominent writers and devoted his later years to writing his own poetry and literary works. He passed away in Nürnberg on June 12, 1681, leaving behind a legacy that underscores the importance of literature in the Baroque period.
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Sigmund von Birken
- Born: May 5, 1626
- Birthplace: Wildstein, Germany
- Died: June 12, 1681
- Place of death: Nürnberg, Germany
Biography
Sigmund von Birken, an early seventeenth century German Baroque writer, was born in Wildstein, Germany. His father was an evangelist minister. In 1629 his family was driven out of Wildstein because of their faith and fled to Nürnberg, his mother’s hometown. Birken began studying law and philosophy at the University of Jena in 1643, but a lack of money forced him to leave the university the following year without completing his studies.
Birken was appointed imperial record keeper to Fernando III, emperor of Germany, in 1655. This office entitled Birken to gather and record legal documents as well as national works of literature and prose. The job also provided a sizeable income and earned Birken respect in his social circles. In 1658, Birken married, Magareth Magdalena Muelet, a wealthy widow. Birken’s personal diaries describe their union as an unhappy one.
With the newly found social status afforded him by his office as literary manager for the emperor, Birken revived the Pegnesischen Blumenorden, an organization for outstanding literary talents. The revival of this organization sparked national recognition of the importance of literature and promoted the talents of many young artists. Birken’s involvement with this organization led him to an acquaintance with Duke William IV. This connection to Duke William IV eventually enabled Birken to become a member of the Fruitful Society. Established in 1616, the Fruitful Society was the first organization dedicated to the promotion of the German language.
Birken spent his final years writing his own literary works and poetry. He also kept records of his correspondence with many well-known writers of his time, including Anton Ulrich, Justus George Schottelius, and his close friend, Catharina Regina of Greiffenberg. Birken died in Nürnberg on June 12, 1681.