Allen Wilson Porterfield
Graf von Loeben and the Legend of Lorelei
From "Modern Philology" vol. 13 (1915)
"Graf von Loeben and the Legend of Lorelei" by Allen Wilson Porterfield is a historical account likely written in the early 20th century, examining the work and impact of the relatively obscure German poet Graf von Loeben. The text delves into Loeben's contributions to literature, particularly his connection to the Lorelei legend, a prominent cultural motif in German romanticism. It outlines both his prolific output in poetry and prose as well as his gradual obscurity in literary history, while also highlighting his relationships and influences among contemporary poets like Goethe and Eichendorff. At the start of the work, Porterfield sets the stage by elaborating on Loeben's life and work, revealing that despite his significant literary production, he is largely forgotten today. The opening discusses his various literary endeavors—ranging from poetry to novels—and notes his failures in achieving enduring fame like his contemporaries. Moreover, the text addresses the origins of the Lorelei legend itself, establishing a critical framework for examining Loeben's contributions to this mythos and his relationship to fellow poets. Porterfield also hints at a nuanced exploration of the interplay between Brentano, Loeben, and Heine concerning the development of the Lorelei narrative, laying the groundwork for deeper analysis in the subsequent sections.