Exploring the Thematic Connection of The Sorrows of Young Werther with Persian Literature

Abstract

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s early intellectual engagement with Islamic culture and Persian literature is well-documented. His library houses work by renowned Persian poets like Hafiz, Sadi, Rumi, and Khayyam. The influence of Persian literary tradition is discernible throughout The Sorrows of Young Werther. Although numerous studies have probed the impact of Persian poets on Goethe’s writings, the thematic relationship between The Sorrows of Young Werther and Persian literature has yet to be explored. To fill this gap, the present research utilizes the comparative method as an analytical framework. This allows for the identification and in-depth exploration of the connections between Goethe’s epistolary novel and several celebrated literary works. The results indicate that Goethe’s profound engagement with Persian literature led to a set of conspicuous thematic associations, along with some verbal correspondences. Nevertheless, the theological themes within The Sorrows of Young Werther demand further examination, especially regarding Persian mysticism.