The Sorrows of Young Werther

'The Sorrows of Young Werther' (in German, 'Die Leiden des jungen Werthers') is a novel by the German author Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, first published in 1774. This novel is considered one of the foundational works of the Sturm und Drang literary movement, characterized by emotional intensity and individualism. The story is presented as a series of letters written by the young artist Werther to his friend Wilhelm. It explores themes of unrequited love, longing, and the conflict between societal expectations and personal desires. Werther's intense and tragic passion for Charlotte, who is already engaged to another man, forms the central emotional narrative.