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Simon DachGerman Prussian poet
Date of Birth: 29.07.1605
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Simon Dach: Prussian Poet and Hymnwriter
- Escape and University
- Academic Career
- Latin and Greek Verses
- The Kürbishütte Literary Circle
- Collaboration and Popular Songs
- Legacy
Simon Dach: Prussian Poet and Hymnwriter
Early Life and EducationSimon Dach was born on July 29, 1605, in Memel (now Klaipėda, Lithuania), in the Duchy of Prussia. Despite his humble background, he received a classical education at the Cathedral School in Königsberg (now Kaliningrad, Russia). He later studied at Latin schools in Wittenberg and Magdeburg.
Escape and University
In 1626, Dach fled Magdeburg to escape the ravages of the Thirty Years' War and the plague. He returned to Prussia and enrolled at the University of Königsberg, where he studied theology and philosophy. He remained in Königsberg for the rest of his life.
Academic Career
After graduating in 1633, Dach became a private tutor. In 1636, he joined the Cathedral School as a teacher and was promoted to deputy director three years later. With the support of Elector Georg Wilhelm von Brandenburg, Dach was appointed Professor of Poetry at Albertina (the University of Königsberg) in 1639. He obtained a doctorate in 1640 and became rector of the university in 1656, earning a small estate as a reward.
Latin and Greek Verses
As Professor of Poetry, Dach composed Latin and Greek verses for university ceremonies, academic dissertations, and funerals. In 1644, he wrote the play "Sorbuisa" for the 100th anniversary of the University of Königsberg.
The Kürbishütte Literary Circle
Dach was a prominent member of the Kürbishütte musical group, which included Georg Weissel, Valentin Thilo, and Johann Franck. The group met at the summer home of Heinrich Albert, where they composed hymns and read their poetry. The Kürbishütte published eight collections of poems and songs between 1638 and 1650, featuring 125 of Dach's works.
Collaboration and Popular Songs
In Königsberg, Dach befriended and collaborated with Heinrich Albert, Robert Roberthin, and Sibylla Schwarz. Their works became widely popular, with some poems becoming folk songs still sung in Germany today. Dach's most famous poem, "Ännchen von Tharau" (Annchen of Tharau), was written in 1637 for the wedding of his friend, a pastor.
Legacy
Simon Dach died on April 15, 1659, in Königsberg at the age of 53. He left behind a legacy of over 150 hymns and numerous poems. His work continues to inspire and entertain generations of readers and listeners.
