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Part of the book: Matthew Arnold and Goethe

James Simpson

MHRA Texts and Dissertations 11

Modern Humanities Research Association

GermanPoetryopen

Abstract.  It is not possible to sum up Arnold's relationship with Goethe in a neat formula. It was, as I have tried to show, a shifting and complex affair. Arnold certainly learned from Goethe and was indebted to him for several important insights. But no less important was the feeling of confidence, which Arnold derived from his intimate acquaintance with Goethe's thought, that - as a continuer of Goethe's path - his own work was central and relevant, truly modern. Arnold felt a deep kinship with the greatest critic of modern life, and this perhaps is why he was able to adopt such an assured and magisterial public manner. Note cues in this chapter refer to endnotes in the end matter of the book.

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