Author
Friedrich Hebbel
1813-1863
Friedrich Hebbel (1813-1863) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Friedrich Hebbel
Mutter und Kind: Ein Gedicht in sieben Gesängen
"Mutter und Kind: Ein Gedicht in sieben Gesängen" by Friedrich Hebbel is a poetic work written in the mid-19th century. The book delves into the themes of motherhood, familial bonds, and the struggles of the lower class, likely focusing on characters in a dramatic narrative that unfolds through its cantos. The opening of the piece introduces a vivid scene on Christmas Eve, where the stark reality of life for the working class is highlighted through the interactions between Christian and Magdalena. As they prepare for the holiday in the kitchen, their dialogue reveals a tapestry of emotions—hope, love, and the harshness of their circumstances. Christian grapples with the hardships faced by his friend Wilhelm, who is struggling in poverty, while contemplating his own future and aspirations. Magdalena’s concern for Christian and their shared dream of bettering their lives encapsulates both their resilience and vulnerability amidst the societal challenges they encounter. This compelling mix of personal and societal struggles sets the stage for a deeper exploration of what it means to be a parent and to nurture hope amidst despair.
Three plays by Frederic Hebbel
"Three Plays by Frederic Hebbel" by Friedrich Hebbel is a collection of dramatic works written in the mid-19th century. This volume includes Hebbel's notable plays, which often explore themes of human nature, morality, and societal constraints through rich imagery and complex character interactions, with a strong emphasis on emotional turmoil and existential reflection. The opening of this collection introduces the reader to the life and early influences of Frederic Hebbel, detailing his rise from humble beginnings in Schleswig-Holstein to becoming a significant figure in the German literary scene. It recounts his struggles with poverty, the impact of strong relationships, and his experiences in various European cities that shaped his creative vision. The beginning also sets the stage for the plays included in the collection, alluding to the themes of fate, the human condition, and the psychological depth of his characters, while hinting at the intertwining of personal and political dilemmas that will unfold in the dramas themselves.
Herodes und Mariamne: Eine Tragödie in fünf Akten
"Herodes und Mariamne: Eine Tragödie in fünf Akten" by Friedrich Hebbel is a dramatic work written in the mid-19th century. The tragedy unfolds against the backdrop of Jerusalem around the time of Christ's birth, centering on the tumultuous relationship between King Herodes and his wife Mariamne, alongside the intrigues of their court involving family tensions, political plots, and themes of love and betrayal. The opening of the play introduces a tense atmosphere in Herodes' court, where he deals with the fallout from a recent catastrophe—a fire that broke out and may have claimed lives. As characters such as Joab, Sameas, and Judas engage in dialogue, it becomes clear that Herodes is preoccupied with maintaining his power amidst threats from the Pharisees and internal dissent. The discussion suggests ominous tensions involving Mariamne, hints of her defiance, and Herodes' struggle to balance love for his wife with his ruthless political ambitions. Through this setup, Hebbel establishes a gripping narrative of loyalty, fear, and the tragic consequences of power, showcasing the complexities of the relationships between the characters, especially between Herodes and Mariamne.
Gyges und sein Ring
"Gyges und sein Ring" by Friedrich Hebbel is a tragedy written in 1854. At the court of King Kandaules, the Greek Gyges possesses a magical ring that grants invisibility. When Kandaules persuades Gyges to use it to secretly view the veiled Queen Rhodope, the violation triggers devastating consequences. Rhodope demands blood atonement for her dishonor, forcing a deadly choice between the king and his friend. This blank verse drama explores honor, shame, and the irreversible nature of transgression in a tale drawn from ancient Greek mythology.
Agnes Bernauer
"Agnes Bernauer" by Friedrich Hebbel is a drama written in 1851. When Duke Albrecht of Bavaria secretly marries Agnes Bernauer, a commoner's daughter, he defies both his father and the political future of Bavaria. His father Duke Ernst faces an impossible choice: accept a marriage that threatens the duchy's stability and succession, or sacrifice an innocent woman to preserve the state. This realistic tragedy explores the devastating conflict between personal love and political necessity, between individual desire and the demands of power.
Schnock: ein niederländisches Gemälde
"Schnock: ein niederländisches Gemälde" by Friedrich Hebbel is a humorous tale written in 1836–37. The story follows a traveling narrator who meets Schnock, a timid carpenter who has just captured an escaped thief. Despite his large, strong build, Schnock is fearful and dominated by those around him. As he recounts his life story, a portrait emerges of a man constantly pressured into decisions against his nature—forced into his father's trade and a troublesome marriage that leaves him struggling to assert himself.
Judith: treurspel in vijf bedrijven
"Judith: treurspel in vijf bedrijven" by Friedrich Hebbel is a tragedy written in 1840. This biblical drama reimagines the story of the beautiful widow Judith, who enters the enemy camp of the tyrannical general Holofernes during his siege of Bethulia. While her people face starvation and despair, Judith devises a daring plan involving seduction and violence to save them. Hebbel transforms the traditional tale into a psychological exploration of a woman haunted by her past and conflicted about crossing forbidden boundaries.