Description

American Book Company [Published date: 1902]. Hard cover, 227 p. Text in German with Introduction in English and German/English dictionary at the back. Edited for school use by R. O. Berkefeld. Good/NO dust jacket. Green cloth covered boards with dark green lettering on front. Light to moderate overall scuffing, soiling and spotting to covers. Binding tight. Pages lightly age but otherwise unmarked with occasional light spotting. NOT Ex-library. NO remainder marks. A good reading copy. [From Introduction] Heinrich Zschokke, the author of this little novel, was born in Magdeburg in 1771, but lived the greater part of his life in Switzerland, where he was active as educator, politician, and author. His complete works comprise forty volumes, and his industry is only equaled by the versatility of his talent. We use the word talent advisedly, for although his writings touch upon the most varied subjects - History, Religion, Diplomacy, Superstition - there is not one very great work, but all reach a certain point of merit which is far above mediocrity. Perhaps the best known of his works is Stunden der Andacht ("Hours of Devotion"), which is a series of religious essays published first singly and then collected in book form. His religion is earnest, warm and inspiring, but not orthodox. . . Zschokke died in 1848. His life had been one of ceaseless activity, and he was honored quite as much as a man and citizen as for his work in the field of literature. In 1895 a statue was erected to commemorate his services at Aargau. Der zerbrochene Krug, a story which appeals to every ready on account of its grace of style, clearness of express, and happy humor, was written by Zschokke after he and his friends, Ludwig Uhland and Heinrich von Kleist had been conversing about a picture called La Cruche Cassee. Heinrich von Kleist wrote a drama on the subject which is perhaps more powerful, but less human and attractive than Zschokke's tale.