Seven Legends

Gottfried Keller

Jan 2010 · Newcomb Livraria Press

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A new 2023 translation of "The Seven Legends" (sieben Legenden) by Gottfried Keller. The Seven Legends is a novella cycle initially published in 1872 but conceived during the author's time in Berlin. This slim work established Keller's reputation in Germany, although it sparked controversy. The Legends' centerpiece is the Virgin Mary, depicted in an interpretation and form divergent from both Catholic and Protestant perspectives. She assumes the role of the "magna mater of earthly and affectionate love," embodying a syncretic deity merging elements of Paganism and Christianity into a feminine trinity of love or a post-Christian Mother Earth. While Theodor Fontane found it repugnant for deviating from the natural simplicity of the legend form, Eduard Mörike was captivated by it. In this collection of allegorical tales, Keller delves into the realms of myth and spirituality.

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One of Nietzsche's favorite living poets (the only real Swiss poet in his opinion, Keller was a major Swiss poet and writer, Keller is best known for his novel "Green Henry" (German: "Der grüne Heinrich"). His work is representative of the Realist movement, which sought to depict life and society as they were. Keller's stories often reflect the conflict between individual creative drives and the constraints of society. His novel "The People of Seldwyla" was one of Nietzsche's favorite.