Carl Arnold Kortum

Carl Arnold Kortum

German writer
Date of Birth: 05.07.1745
Country: Germany

Content:
  1. Karl Arnold Kortum: A German Writer with a Literary Legacy
  2. Literary Success with "Die Jobsiade"
  3. Other Comic Poems by Kortum
  4. Use of "Knittelvers" in Poetry
  5. Legacy and Impact

Karl Arnold Kortum: A German Writer with a Literary Legacy

Physician by Occupation, Author by Passion

Karl Arnold Kortum was a German writer born in M?nchengladbach, Prussia, in 1745. While he initially pursued a career in medicine, his literary works have overshadowed his medical contributions.

Literary Success with "Die Jobsiade"

Kortum's most famous work is the anonymous poem "Die Jobsiade," published in 1784. Despite its lack of sophistication and occasional vulgarity, it achieved immense popularity. The illustrations by artists like Wilhelm Busch and Friedrich Haas helped its distribution.

Other Comic Poems by Kortum

Kortum's repertoire extended beyond "Die Jobsiade." He penned other humorous poems, including "Adams Hochzeitsfeier" (1788), "Der M?rtyrer der Mode" (The Martyr of Fashion), and "Die magische Laterne" (The Magic Lantern).

Use of "Knittelvers" in Poetry

Kortum intentionally employed the "Kn?ttelvers" (club verse) in his poetry. This meter, characterized by irregular line length and a frequent repetition of rhymes, gives his works a distinct rhythmic quality.

Legacy and Impact

Although Kortum's medical writings have been forgotten, his literary works continue to be appreciated for their humor and clever use of language. "Die Jobsiade" remains a popular example of German comic epic poetry.

© BIOGRAPHS