Arthur Schnitzler (1862–1931) was an Austrian playwright, novelist, and physician known for his psychological depth, critiques of bourgeois morality, and exploration of Viennese society. His works examined love, honor, and existential dilemmas, influencing modernist literature and theater.
Born in Vienna, Austria, Schnitzler studied medicine at the University of Vienna, earning his doctorate (1885.) He practiced psychiatry, integrating Freudian themes into his writing. His early success came with Anatol (1893,) a series of one-act plays on romantic relationships.
His most famous works include Reigen (1897, Merry-Go-Round,) a controversial play depicting ten interconnected love affairs, later adapted into Max Ophüls’ film La Ronde (1950.) Other notable works include Liebelei (1896, Playing with Love,) Leutnant Gustl (1901, None but the Brave,) Fräulein Else (1924,) and Flucht in die Finsternis (1931, Flight into Darkness,) which explores madness and psychological decay.
Schnitzler’s novel Der Weg ins Freie (1908, The Road to the Open) examines Jewish identity in Austria, while Professor Bernhardi (1912) critiques antisemitism and medical ethics.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Arthur Schnitzler
To be unhappy is only half the misfortune to be pitied is misery complete
—Arthur Schnitzler
Topics: Unhappiness
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