Author
Clemens Brentano
1778-1842
Clemens Brentano (1778-1842) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Clemens Brentano
Gockel, Hinkel und Gackeleia
"Gockel, Hinkel und Gackeleia" by Clemens Brentano is a whimsical narrative that appears to be a blend of fairy tale and fable, likely written in the early 19th century. The story revolves around a proud old rooster named Gockel, his wife Hinkel, and their daughter Gackeleia, who live in a ruined castle in Germany. As they navigate the trials of their humble life, they encounter various birds, both friendly and predatory, and the themes of nobility, self-respect, and familial love are prominently featured as Gockel seeks to maintain his dignity while facing their impoverished circumstances. The opening of the story introduces the main characters and their living situation within the decrepit castle, highlighting Gockel's stubbornness and moral conviction against housing predatory birds, despite pressing financial needs. Gockel fiercely believes in protecting his family and the innocent, reminding Hinkel of their noble heritage, while also showcasing his eccentric personality. The narrative sets up the family's dynamic and hints at various adventures and challenges they will face, as Gockel struggles to balance honor and the realities of their dire living conditions. The whimsical language and fantastical elements foreshadow a journey filled with moral lessons and enchanting encounters in a richly imagined world.
Aus der Chronika eines fahrenden Schülers (Zweite Fassung)
"Aus der Chronika eines fahrenden Schülers (Zweite Fassung)" by Clemens Brentano is a narrative written between 1802-1806, with a later version published in 1818. Johannes, a poor wandering student born in 1358, finds work as a scribe for Knight Veltlin and entertains the household with stories. He recounts his own origins and shares interwoven tales of love, loss, and enchantment—including mysterious sisters drawn to dangerous seas, a beautiful beggar seeking sacred objects, and a seductive Pearl Spirit who lures mortals to their doom.
Deutsche Humoristen, 2. Band (von 8)
"Deutsche Humoristen, 2. Band (von 8)" by Brentano, Hoffmann, and Zschokke is a collection of humorous literary works written in the early 20th century. This volume features tales from prominent German authors, showcasing various humorous themes and styles from the 19th century. The book encapsulates the wit and charm of these authors through a compilation of anecdotes and narratives intended to entertain readers. The opening of "Deutsche Humoristen, 2. Band" introduces the first story, "Die mehreren Wehmüller oder ungarische Nationalgesichter" by Clemens Brentano. The tale begins with Herr Wehmüller, a traveling painter who, amidst the ongoing plague in Croatia, is eager to make his way to his wife in Siebenbürgen. He is anxious about the delays in his journey and the rumor of his illustrious contemporaries who seek his talents. Wehmüller is characterized as a determined yet comedic figure as he attempts to navigate obstacles surrounding a mysterious doppelgänger also bearing his name, leading to a series of humorous misunderstandings involving soldiers, local villagers, and his longing for his wife.
Das Märchen von dem Myrtenfräulein
"Das Märchen von dem Myrtenfräulein" by Clemens Brentano is a fairy tale written in the early 19th century. This enchanting tale centers around a childless potter and his wife who pray for a child, leading to the arrival of a magical myrtle plant that becomes the vessel for their longed-for daughter. The story delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of nature, wrapped in a traditional fairy tale format that reflects the era's romantic ideals. The narrative begins with the potter and his wife living in a barren land, yearning for a child. Their prayers are answered when a myrtle branch mysteriously appears, symbolizing their hopes and dreams. The prince of the land becomes enamored with the myrtle and, through various events, comes to cherish the being that resides within it: the Myrtenfräulein. As the tale unfolds, the prince faces conflict from envious noblewomen, ultimately leading to a tragic event where the Myrtenfräulein is harmed. Yet, with love and determination, the prince restores her to life through the renewal of the myrtle tree. The story concludes with a joyous celebration and the promise of a new beginning, encapsulating the fairy tale’s timeless themes of resilience and reward for virtue.
Die mehreren Wehmüller und ungarischen Nationalgesichter
"Die mehreren Wehmüller und ungarischen Nationalgesichter" by Clemens Brentano is a tale published between September and October 1817. Portrait painter Wehmüller travels to Hungary with mass-produced "national faces" for quick customer portraits, only to discover a plagiarist impersonating him on the same route. Detained by a pest quarantine at an inn, Wehmüller finds himself trapped with strangers sharing eerie tales—while multiple imposters complicate his urgent journey to reunite with his beloved wife.
Geschichte vom braven Kasperl und dem schönen Annerl
"Geschichte vom braven Kasperl und dem schönen Annerl" by Clemens Brentano is a frame novella published in 1817. On a cool early summer night, a writer encounters an old peasant woman with a desperate request. Her grandson Kasperl has shot himself over a matter of honor, while his fiancée Annerl awaits execution for infanticide. The grandmother seeks an honorable burial for both, but the writer becomes determined to save Annerl's life. The story explores different conceptions of honor and their devastating consequences.
Die drei Nüsse
"Die drei Nüsse" by Clemens Brentano is a story published in August 1817. In 1665 Colmar, a Latin phrase about three nuts triggers a mysterious alchemist's panicked flight from the mayor's home. A year later, a woman named Amelie arrives seeking refuge, only to be confronted by a painting of that strange scene. Her confession unveils a tragic tale of forbidden love, murder, and mistaken identity—culminating in a shocking revelation that binds her fate to the mayor's family forever.
Romanzen vom Rosenkranz
"Romanzen vom Rosenkranz" by Clemens Brentano is a collection of poetic narratives likely written in the early 19th century. The work explores themes of spirituality, innocence, and the decision between light and darkness. The opening chapters introduce various characters, including Rosablanka and Kosme, whose interactions hint at deeper moral and existential dilemmas influenced by Christian iconography and folklore. The opening of this collection sets a dreamlike atmosphere as it describes a child's night filled with soothing dreams and reflections on family and faith. Readers are introduced to Rosablanka, who is captivated by visions and encounters symbolic figures, such as a young man in a garden and a serpent, as she grapples with themes of sin and redemption. Kosme, another central character, faces his regrets and hopes of reconnecting with lost loved ones against the backdrop of nature's tranquility. This initial portion of the book vividly lays the groundwork for a rich exploration of the human condition through the lens of faith and poetic beauty.
Kunnon Kasper ja kaunis Anni
"Kunnon Kasper ja kaunis Anni" by Clemens Brentano is a novella written in the early 19th century. This work stands out as an important piece within modern German literature, particularly noted for its role in pioneering the genre of folk narrative or "kyläkertomus." The story revolves around the lives of the titular characters, Kasper, a noble peasant-soldier, and the beautiful Anni, whose intertwined fates capture themes of honor and sacrifice against the backdrop of rural German life. The opening of the novella introduces us to an elderly peasant woman who is determined to rest on the doorstep of a grand house, revealing a sense of calm resignation despite the concerns of onlookers. As the crowd debates her situation, she insists on her right to stay, referencing her past sacrifices. The narrative then shifts to a male narrator who becomes captivated by her presence and listens to her story. She recounts the tragic fate of her grandson, Kasper, a soldier who, facing a moral and existential crisis, has taken his own life after being forced to recognize his family's crimes. This poignant beginning sets a somber yet reflective tone, hinting at deeper themes of integrity, love, and the pains inherent in human existence.