Inspirational Quotes by Gottfried Keller (Swiss Poet, Novelist)

Gottfried Keller (1819–90) was a Swiss poet and novelist, widely recognized as one of the leading figures of German-language literary realism and the foremost German-Swiss narrative writer of the Poetischer Realismus (“Poetic Realism”) movement.

Born near Zürich, Keller first trained as a painter but soon turned to writing. His first poetry collection, Gedichte (1846,) marked the beginning of a major literary career. His landmark novel, Der grüne Heinrich (1854–55; revised 1879–80; Green Henry,) is a semi-autobiographical Bildungsroman exploring artistic ambition and personal growth. From 1861 to 1876, Keller served as the official clerk of the canton of Zürich, which limited his literary activity.

Keller’s vivid short stories, compiled in Die Leute von Seldwyla (1856–74; Seldwyla Folks,) portray Swiss life with humor and insight. The collection includes the widely admired tale Romeo und Julia auf dem Dorfe (1856; A Village Romeo and Juliet.) He also authored Sieben Legenden (1872; Seven Legends,) a set of religious-themed narratives, and Martin Salander (1886; Martin Salander,) a novel reflecting Swiss political and social themes.

More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Gottfried Keller