Births on February 2

Johann Christoph Gottsched, German author and critic (d. 1766)

Johann Christoph Gottsched (2 February 1700 – 12 December 1766) was a profoundly influential German intellectual figure of the 18th century, widely recognized as a pivotal philosopher, prolific author, and incisive critic during the transformative period of the Age of Enlightenment, or Aufklärung, in Germany. His extensive work significantly shaped the trajectory of German literature, theatre, and language, advocating for a rationalistic approach and a refinement of national culture.

More than merely an academic, Gottsched was a tireless reformer whose efforts aimed at elevating German artistic and intellectual life to the standards of contemporary European culture, particularly that of France. His contributions were rooted in the conviction that reason, clarity, and moral purpose should underpin all forms of expression, from philosophical discourse to theatrical performance.

Gottsched as a Cultural Reformer

Gottsched’s impact as a critic extended far beyond mere commentary; he was an active proponent of systemic change, particularly in German theatre and literature. He believed that the German stage, often characterized by improvisation, slapstick comedy, and the crude antics of characters like the "Hanswurst" (a popular, often vulgar, clown figure), needed a radical overhaul.

• Reforming German Theatre




Gottsched vigorously championed a theatre based on French classical models, emphasizing the three unities (action, time, place), decorum, and moral instruction. He aimed to transform theatre into a respectable institution that would educate and edify the burgeoning middle class rather than simply entertain. His collaboration with the actress and theatre manager Caroline Neuber was instrumental in implementing these reforms. Together, they famously "expelled" the Hanswurst character from serious German plays, symbolizing a break from popular, unrefined traditions towards a more structured and morally uplifting drama.




• Shaping German Literature and Language




As an author, Gottsched produced a wide array of works, including grammars, dictionaries, rhetorical treatises, and literary criticism. His "Versuch einer critischen Dichtkunst vor die Deutschen" (Essay on a Critical Poetics for Germans, 1730) served as a foundational text for German literary theory, outlining principles for writing poetry and drama based on rational rules and classical examples. He also played a significant role in standardizing the German language, promoting the High German dialect of Upper Saxony as the model for written German, which contributed significantly to linguistic unity across the fragmented German states. His efforts in linguistic purity and clarity were crucial for the development of modern German prose.

Gottsched's Philosophical Stance and the Enlightenment

As a philosopher, Gottsched was a prominent exponent of rationalism, deeply influenced by the German philosopher Christian Wolff. He advocated for the application of reason and logical deduction to all fields of knowledge and human endeavor. His philosophical outlook was characterized by a belief in the inherent order of the universe and the power of human intellect to grasp and apply universal truths.

Within the broader context of the German Enlightenment (Aufklärung), Gottsched embodied the movement's early phase, which prioritized clarity, order, and the practical application of philosophical principles to improve society and culture. Unlike the more politically radical Enlightenment thinkers in France, the German Aufklärung, as represented by Gottsched, often focused on moral, intellectual, and cultural refinement rather than revolutionary political change. He lectured extensively at the University of Leipzig, where he became a prominent academic voice, attracting numerous students and disciples.

Legacy and Shifting Influence

While Gottsched’s influence was immense during the first half of the 18th century, his rigid adherence to rules and rational principles eventually led to a decline in his popularity later in his life. As new literary movements, such as the Sturm und Drang (Storm and Stress) – championed by younger writers like Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller – emerged, advocating for emotional expression, individual genius, and a rejection of prescriptive rules, Gottsched's methodical approach was increasingly seen as stifling and outdated. Despite this shift, his foundational work in establishing a more structured and respected German literary and theatrical tradition remains undeniable. He cleared the ground for future developments, even if those developments ultimately moved beyond his own strictures.

Frequently Asked Questions About Johann Christoph Gottsched

Who was Johann Christoph Gottsched?

Johann Christoph Gottsched was a highly influential German philosopher, author, and literary critic during the Age of Enlightenment (Aufklärung) in the 18th century. He is best known for his efforts to reform German literature, theatre, and language by advocating for rational principles and classical models.

What was Gottsched's main contribution to German theatre?

Gottsched's main contribution to German theatre was his campaign to reform the stage by introducing French classical rules (like the unities of action, time, and place) and eliminating crude, improvised elements, most famously expelling the "Hanswurst" character. His aim was to make theatre a morally uplifting and intellectually respectable institution.

How did Gottsched influence the German language?

Gottsched significantly influenced the German language by promoting the Upper Saxon dialect as the standard for written High German. Through his grammars and treatises, he advocated for linguistic clarity, purity, and standardization, which contributed to greater unity and sophistication in written German.

What was Gottsched's philosophical alignment?

Gottsched was a prominent proponent of rationalism, heavily influenced by the philosophy of Christian Wolff. He believed in applying reason and logical principles to all aspects of culture and society, aligning with the core tenets of the early German Enlightenment.

Why did Gottsched's influence decline?

Gottsched's influence began to decline later in his life because his rigid adherence to rational rules and classical forms was seen as too restrictive by younger generations, particularly the emerging Sturm und Drang movement. This new literary wave favored emotional expression, individual genius, and a break from prescriptive rules, leading to Gottsched's methods being perceived as outdated.