Abstract
This article re-examines the 'new song' from Canto I of "Deutschland: Ein Wintermärchen" in the light of the reference to Aristophanes' "Birds" in Canto 27. From here it explores a series of statements by Heine in which he proposes that this play holds an esoteric meaning for him concerning humankind's foolish propensity to usurp the place of the gods. An 'Aristophanes complex' comes to light according to which Heine associates himself variously with Peisetaerus (the hero of The Birds), with Aristophanes, and with God himself. The identification of this complex renders problematical Heine's advocacy of humankind's self-deification, while also highlighting the ambivalence in the Wintermärchen. Light is also cast on Heine's religious and political standpoints and his attitude to Hegel.
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