German Romanticism Lesson Plans

Purpose: Music, art and literature are often a reflection of major changes taking place in society. Literary trends usually occur in response to political upheaval and uncertainty. The origins of German Romanticism are attributed to a violent protest against the Age of Reason and a politically and socially divided Germany. Today's lesson will be an introduction to German Romanticism and outline the major components of its beginnings. We will also see examples of this literary style as we read through a poem and excerpts from "Leiden des jungen Werther's", by Goethe.

Objectives: At the end of these lessons, students will be able to:
1. Define the term "Romantic"
2. State the political and social causes that triggured the Romantic movement.
3. List the major constituents of "Sturm und Drang"(Storm and Stress)
4. Recognize "Sturm und Drang" motifs through selected readings.
5 .Define"Empfindsamkeit" and apply it to these readings.
6. Identify the theme of irrationalism in "Werther".

Set Induction: Students are asked to reflect on the origins of Rock and Roll based on their knowledge of societal events prevalent during the 1960's.
Teacher asks students if they can think of a time in their lives when they were so captive to their emotions that they weren't able to respond rationally? What were the consequences?

Guided Practice: Teacher reads poem "Gretchen am Spinnrade" together with class along with excerpts from "Werther" and assists them with key vocabulary and literary terms.Students break up into groups and take turns reading passages aloud in English. After each passage, they discuss meaning and interpretation in the context of "Sturm und Drang". Teacher circulates throughout groups and serves as mediator to prompt students in right direction.

Information/Modeling: Teacher defines Romanticism. Explains social/political background of movement and contributing philosopers. Introduces "Sturm und Drang" movement as the forerunner of German romantic literature.
Teacher explains the term "Empfindsamkeit", over sensitivity or excessive emotionalism.