Jedermann: Das Spiel vom Sterben des reichen Mannes

Name: Jedermann: Das Spiel vom Sterben des reichen Mannes
Author: Hugo von Hofmannsthal

By Hugo von Hofmannsthal

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

Plays/Films/Dramas

About This Book

A prosperous man is suddenly summoned by Death to stand before God and must make an account of his life; he finds that worldly friends, pleasures, and possessions abandon him while allegorical figures such as Faith, Good Deeds, and Mammon confront his fate. Attempts to rely on Fellowship, Wealth, and social standing fail, and the drama tracks his movement from complacent materialism toward penitence, charitable acts, and spiritual reckoning. Staged as a moral parable, the text compresses theological instruction into ritualized pageantry and poetic monologue to examine mortality, judgement, repentance, and the tension between temporal comfort and eternal salvation.

About the Author

Hugo von Hofmannsthal

Hugo von Hofmannsthal was an Austrian poet, playwright, and essayist, known for his significant contributions to early 20th-century literature. He emerged as a prominent figure in the literary scene of Vienna, where he was associated with the modernist movement. His works often explore themes of identity, mortality, and the human condition. One of his most notable plays, "Jedermann: Das Spiel vom Sterben des reichen Mannes," reflects his interest in existential questions and morality. Hofmannsthal's lyrical poetry and dramatic works have left a lasting impact on German literature, showcasing his mastery of language and form.