The Sorrows of Young Werther

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains references to attempted sexual assault, suicidal ideation, and death by suicide.

Before the letters begin, an unsigned note from the Editor addresses the reader, assuring them that all the extant materials related to Werther are included, and imploring them to “draw consolation from his sorrows” (23).

In the opening letter, Werther writes to his friend Wilhelm, to express his happiness at being away from home, alluding to a young woman who suffered on his behalf. He vows to improve his outlook by enjoying the present rather than ruminating on past events. He mentions some business of his mother’s regarding an inheritance and asks his friend to assure her it will turn out all right. Although he does not like the town he is in, Werther enjoys the solitude and sensory joys of nature. He is particularly enamored with a garden and summerhouse designed by the late Count M. that is soon to belong to him.

In these three letters, Werther describes the picturesque charm of his new rural home. He attributes the property’s natural beauty to the gardening skills of its former owner. He is captivated by the landscape, especially the