The Aesthetic Function of the Grotesque in E.T.A. Hoffmann’s „The Sandman”

Abstract

This article explores the aesthetic intricacies of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s „The Sandman,” through the lenses of Kantian and Burkean philosophy, examining the profound implications of the grotesque within the narrative. Drawing from Kant’s notion of the sublime and Burke’s concepts of terror and delight, the article analyzes how Hoffmann masterfully intertwines elements of the grotesque to evoke a sense of astonishment and transcendence in the reader. Through an analysis of the protagonist Nathaniel’s tumultuous journey and his fraught relationship with the grotesque figure of Coppelius, we aim to elucidate how Hoffmann addresses themes of trauma, obsession, and existential dread. Furthermore, the article delves into the broader implications of the grotesque within Romantic literature, highlighting its role as a means of approaching complex psychological and societal phenomena. Ultimately, by unravelling the enigmatic connection between the narrator and Nathaniel, the article underscores how „The Sandman” emerges as a haunting enquiry into human frailty and the elusive nature of reality.