Studies on Leibniz in German thought and literature 1787 - 1835

Viac o knihe

Leibniz’s metaphysical system significantly influenced German writers and thinkers into the Twentieth century, yet many aspects of this impact remain largely unexplored. This study examines the diverse modifications of Leibniz’s influence in the works of Herder, Fichte, Hölderlin, Novalis, Büchner, and Feuerbach. Each author reinterprets and refashions key elements of Leibniz’s system to align with their unique aesthetic or metaphysical goals. For instance, Fichte adapts Leibniz’s theory of the soul’s autonomy to envision a utopian historical evolution, while Büchner transforms Leibniz’s ideas to create a dark parody of the “best of all possible worlds.” Additionally, the study delves into how these thinkers engage with Spinoza’s nature anthology within the framework of Leibniz’s idealism. The interdisciplinary nature of this analysis highlights the intersections of literature and philosophy, shedding light on the intellectual currents of the Zeitgeist that shaped the authors' works. By elucidating these creative reconstructions, the study aims to enhance our understanding of Leibniz’s enduring legacy and its complex manifestations in German thought.