The Poet, the Pianist, and the Patron: Hans Christian Andersen and Franz Liszt in Carl Alexander's Weimar

Abstract

The writings of Hans Christian Andersen shed important light on Liszt's years in Weimar and his relationship with the city's most powerful patron, Grand Duke Carl Alexander. Andersen shared a strong friendship with Carl Alexander, and from 1844 to 1857 he visited Weimar on numerous occasions. He also corresponded with Carl Alexander regularly, taking special care to preserve the Grand Duke's thoughts about the role of the artist in society, the incongruousness of art and politics, and Liszt's "Music of the Future." Two of Andersen's lesser-known tales, "The Bell" and "The Pepperman's Nightcap," were inspired by his interactions with Carl Alexander and Liszt. These tales, along with the many firsthand accounts of life in Weimar preserved in Andersen's letters, diaries, and memoirs, serve as testimonials to the city's changing artistic climate during the mid-nineteenth century and elucidate the complexity of Carl Alexander's role as patron and the indelible imprint Liszt's presence had on those around him.