How Do You Spell WERTHERIAN?

1. Wertherian is an adjective that refers to anything associated with a style of literature known as Wertherism, which was made popular by the German novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther," written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in the late 18th century. The term "Wertherian" is derived from the eponymous character Werther, who is the protagonist of the novel.

   In terms of literature and art, Wertherian describes works that evoke deep sentimental or melancholic emotions, often focusing on themes of unrequited love, despair, and the protagonist's intense emotional reactions. Wertherian works typically portray individuals who are idealistic, sensitive, and even self-destructive in their pursuit of romantic love. The protagonist often experiences inner turmoil, longing, and an unattainable yearning for the object of their affection, leading to a tragic or unhappy outcome.

   Moreover, the term "Wertherian" can also describe a person who exhibits characteristics or traits similar to the protagonist in "The Sorrows of Young Werther." This can include being highly emotional, overtly romantic, and immersed in one's own thoughts and feelings. It may also refer to someone who finds solace or inspiration in such melancholic works of literature, thereby embracing and embodying the Wertherian philosophy.

Common Misspellings for WERTHERIAN

The word "Wertherian" is derived from the name "Werther", which refers to the protagonist of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's famous novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther". The character of Werther in the novel is a sensitive and emotional young man who experiences unrequited love and ultimately takes his own life.

Since the novel's publication in 1774, it had a significant impact on literature and society, leading to a phenomenon known as "Werther Fever". This term described the intense emotional identification that many young readers had with the character Werther, often leading them to imitate his fashion, behavior, and even his tragic end.

Over time, the term "Wertherian" emerged to describe someone or something characterized by the same emotional intensity, sensitivity, or a similar romantic outlook as the character Werther.