Author
Hugo von Hofmannsthal
1874-1929
Hugo von Hofmannsthal (1874-1929) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Hugo von Hofmannsthal
Jedermann: Das Spiel vom Sterben des reichen Mannes
"Jedermann: Das Spiel vom Sterben des reichen Mannes" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal is a theatrical play first performed in 1911. A wealthy man lives without concern for God or his fellow humans, hoarding riches and ignoring the poor. When Death suddenly appears to summon him before divine judgment, he desperately seeks companions for his final journey. His friends, servants, and even his beloved gold all abandon him. Only through discovering faith and recognizing his good deeds can he hope for salvation from an uncertain fate.
Gedichte
"Gedichte" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century. This book showcases the lyrical and philosophical depth of Hofmannsthal’s thoughts and emotions, likely revolving around themes of transience, nature, and the human experience. Through a variety of poetic styles and subjects, Hofmannsthal captures fleeting moments and deeper truths, all while enriching the reader's understanding of life and art. The collection is divided into several sections, each containing poems that evoke vivid imagery and introspective explorations. From the delicate sweetness of spring breezes in "Vorfrühling" to the reflective tones of aging and loss in "Verses on a Little Child," Hofmannsthal's work invites readers to delve into the beauty and melancholy of existence. Themes of love, nature, and mortality weave through the poems, exemplified in pieces such as "Die beiden" and "Liedchen des Harlekin." Overall, "Gedichte" serves as a testament to Hofmannsthal's mastery in capturing the complexities of the human soul through his poetic voice.
Der Schwierige: Lustspiel in drei Akten
"Der Schwierige: Lustspiel in drei Akten" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal is a comedy written in 1921. Set in post-World War I Vienna over a single day, the play follows Count Hans Karl Bühl, a 39-year-old bachelor who finds social gatherings unbearable. Pressured to attend an evening soirée, he becomes entangled in others' romantic complications—including his nephew's affair, a friend's troubled marriage, and questions about his own feelings toward Helene Altenwyl, who has loved him since childhood.
Der Tod des Tizian. Idylle. Zwei Dichtungen
"Der Tod des Tizian. Idylle. Zwei Dichtungen" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal is a lyric drama fragment published in 1892. Set on the final day of Renaissance painter Titian's life, the work depicts his students gathered on a villa terrace as their master lies dying. The young artists celebrate beauty and art while expressing their separation from the city below. As Titian paints one last work, the drama explores the divide between artist and dilettante, and the incompatibility of art and life in fin de siècle society.
Der Tor und der Tod
"Der Tor und der Tod" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal is a lyric drama in verse written in 1893. The play follows nobleman Claudio as Death arrives to take him from life. Death confronts Claudio with three departed souls—his mother, a former lover, and a childhood friend—revealing that he lived with aesthetic detachment, never forming deep connections. Only in his final hour does Claudio experience true emotional vitality, recognizing the emptiness of his dandy-like existence too late.
Jokamies : $b Vanha näytelmä rikkaan miehen kuolemasta
"Jokamies: Vanha näytelmä rikkaan miehen kuolemasta" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal is a morality play written in the early 20th century. It reimagines the medieval Everyman story: a prosperous man is summoned by Death to render an account of his life before God. The drama follows the wealthy Jokamies as he searches for companionship and help on his last journey, finding that worldly ties fail while spiritual virtues may endure. Expect allegorical figures and a sober meditation on wealth, repentance, and salvation. The opening of the play sets a sacred frame: God laments human forgetfulness and sends Death to summon a rich man to judgment. Jokamies boasts of his wealth, spurns a needy neighbor, and coldly defends usury; his mother urges him toward repentance and marriage, but he turns instead to revels with his beloved and friends. In the midst of a feast he hears ominous calls; Death appears and commands him to come at once, granting only a brief chance to find a companion. His closest friend and two cousins refuse to go; his servants flee; even Mammon rises from his treasure chest to mock him and deny aid. At last a frail figure—Good Deeds—answers his call, revealing herself weakened by his neglect yet willing to help if she can. The excerpt closes with her urging him toward true contrition as his reckoning nears.