48 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
149
Novel • Fiction
Germany • 1770s
1774
Adult
16+ years
The Sorrows of Young Werther by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a semi-autobiographical epistolary novel about Werther, a sensitive young man who moves to Wahlheim and falls deeply in love with Lotte, a woman engaged to another man. His unrequited love leads to intense emotional suffering and a downward spiral. The novel explores themes of passion, individualism, and society's constraints, ultimately culminating in tragic consequences. This novel includes references to suicidal ideation and death by suicide.
Melancholic
Emotional
Romantic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
139,063 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Sorrows of Young Werther by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe evokes strong emotional responses, praised for its profound exploration of unrequited love and the impact of intense emotions. Critics admire its lyrical prose and vivid descriptions, although some find the protagonist's extreme sensitivity and melancholy overwhelming. Themes of romanticism and personal expression resonate deeply, yet the storyline's intensity might not appeal to all readers.
A reader who would enjoy The Sorrows of Young Werther by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe typically appreciates Romantic literature, introspective narratives, and profound emotional depth. Similar to readers of Rousseau's Julie, or the New Heloise and Hesse's Steppenwolf, they revel in themes of unrequited love, existential angst, and expressive prose.
139,063 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Lotte
A kind and caring young woman who becomes the focus of Werther’s affections, known for her devotion to her family and her sense of duty.
Albert
Lotte's fiancé and later husband, characterized by his patience and practicality, which contrast sharply with Werther’s emotional impulsiveness.
The Editor
An unnamed narrator who compiles Werther’s letters and provides additional context, offering an objective perspective to Werther’s subjective experiences.
The “Farmer Lad”
A minor character infatuated with a widow, whose unrequited love and ensuing actions parallel Werther’s own struggles.
Miss von B.
An aristocratic woman whom Werther meets and begins a complicated courtship with, hindered by social status and expectations.
149
Novel • Fiction
Germany • 1770s
1774
Adult
16+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.