The History and Meaning of Prince Friedrich of Homburg: A New Translation for the American Stage
Prince Friedrich of Homburg: A New Translation for the American Stage
If you are looking for a captivating and thought-provoking play to read or watch, you might want to check out Prince Friedrich of Homburg, a masterpiece by Heinrich von Kleist, one of the most influential German writers of the early 19th century. This play, which explores themes such as duty, freedom, love, and death, has been newly translated for the American stage by Diana Stone Peters and Frederick G. Peters, who have captured the beauty and power of Kleist's language in fluent and faithful English. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this book, from its plot and themes, to its historical and literary context, to its reception and interpretation, to its benefits and challenges for translation, to its best ways to read and enjoy it. Whether you are a fan of Kleist or a newcomer to his work, you will find something interesting and inspiring in this article.
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The plot and themes of Prince Friedrich of Homburg
Prince Friedrich of Homburg is a historical drama based on the life and deeds of Frederick II, Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach (1636-1688), who was also known as Prince Friedrich von Homburg. The play is set in 1675, during the Great Northern War between Sweden and a coalition of European states led by Brandenburg-Prussia. The main action takes place in Fehrbellin, where Prince Friedrich commands a cavalry regiment under the orders of Elector Frederick William I (1620-1688), also known as the Great Elector.
The play begins with a dream sequence, in which Prince Friedrich plucks a laurel wreath from a statue of Victory while sleepwalking in his tent. He is awakened by his friend Count Hohenzollern (1640-1699), who interprets his dream as a sign of glory. However, he also warns him not to disobey the Elector's orders in battle. The next day, before the battle, Prince Friedrich meets Princess Natalie (1650-1705), the Elector's niece and heir, and falls in love with her. She also shows interest in him, but reminds him of his duty to the state.
During the battle, Prince Friedrich sees an opportunity to attack the Swedish army and leads a charge without waiting for the Elector's signal. His impulsive action results in a decisive victory for the Prussian forces, but also in a violation of military discipline. The Elector, who is a strict and stern ruler, sentences Prince Friedrich to death by court-martial for disobeying orders. Prince Friedrich is shocked and terrified by his fate, and begs for mercy. He also appeals to Princess Natalie, who loves him and tries to intercede for him. The Elector, however, remains firm and insists on executing the sentence.
The play then follows Prince Friedrich's psychological journey from fear to acceptance, as he struggles with his conflicting emotions and values. He questions the legitimacy and justice of the Elector's authority, and wonders if he should resist or submit to his will. He also reflects on his love for Princess Natalie, and his desire for life and happiness. He is visited by various characters, such as his father, his friends, his enemies, and his spiritual adviser, who offer him different perspectives and advice. He is also offered a chance to escape, but he refuses it. Eventually, he decides to face his death with dignity and courage, and declares his loyalty to the Elector and the state. He also renounces his love for Princess Natalie, and asks her to marry someone else.
The play ends with a twist, as the Elector reveals that he has pardoned Prince Friedrich and spared his life. He explains that he wanted to test his character and loyalty, and that he is satisfied with his choice. He also praises his bravery and skill in battle, and awards him with the laurel wreath of victory. He then announces that he will marry Princess Natalie to Prince Friedrich, and make him his successor. Prince Friedrich is overjoyed by this turn of events, and thanks the Elector for his mercy and generosity. He also expresses his gratitude to Princess Natalie, who has remained faithful to him. The play concludes with a celebration of peace and harmony among the characters.
The play explores several themes that are relevant to both Kleist's time and ours, such as the relationship between individual freedom and state authority, the role of law and order in society, the nature of heroism and honor, the value of life and death, the power of love and passion, and the meaning of dreams and reality. The play also raises questions that challenge the audience to think critically and creatively about their own beliefs and values, such as: What is the source and limit of political power? What is the balance between obedience and initiative? What is the responsibility of a leader and a follower? What is the difference between courage and recklessness? What is the price of glory and fame? What is the role of fate and free will? What is the essence of love and loyalty?
The historical and literary context of Prince Friedrich of Homburg
Prince Friedrich of Homburg is not only a historical drama, but also a literary masterpiece that reflects the life and work of its author, Heinrich von Kleist (1777-1811). Kleist was one of the most influential German writers of the early 19th century, who wrote several plays, novellas, stories, essays, letters, and poems. He was also one of the most troubled and tragic figures in German literature, who suffered from depression, anxiety, poverty, illness, loneliness, frustration, disillusionment, and suicidal tendencies. He died by suicide at the age of 34, after killing his friend Henriette Vogel (1780-1811), who was suffering from terminal cancer.
Kleist was born in Frankfurt an der Oder in 1777 into a noble Prussian family with a long military tradition. He joined the Prussian army in 1792 at the age of 15, but resigned in 1799 after becoming disillusioned with military life. He then studied philosophy 71b2f0854b