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Willibald AlexisGerman writer
Date of Birth: 29.06.1798
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Wilhelm Alexis: Father of the German Historical Novel
- Education and Literary Career
- Influence of Walter Scott
- Berlin Literary Scene
- Political Activism and the Revolution of 1848
- Later Years and Legacy
Wilhelm Alexis: Father of the German Historical Novel
Early Life and the Napoleonic WarsWilhelm Alexis, born Wilhelm Häring, was a German writer known for pioneering the genre of realistic historical novels in German literature. Born into a Breton Huguenot family, he adopted the pseudonym Alexis to avoid mockery over his last name, which was a homophone of the German word for herring.
As a child, Alexis witnessed the siege of Breslau during the Napoleonic Wars. After the French victory, he moved to Berlin with his mother, where he attended school. In 1815, he joined the liberation wars against Napoleon as a volunteer.
Education and Literary Career
After the wars, Alexis studied law and history in Berlin and Breslau under renowned scholars. In 1820, he began working as a legal intern and became acquainted with writers like E.T.A. Hoffmann and Julius Eduard Hitzig.
In 1824, Alexis's first novel achieved success, leading him to resign from his government position. He became editor of the Berliner Konversationsblatt and established several reading societies.
Influence of Walter Scott
Alexis was heavily influenced by Walter Scott's historical novels, particularly "Ivanhoe." He initially published his first novel as a translation of Scott's work.
Berlin Literary Scene
During his time in Berlin, Alexis played a significant role in the city's literary circles. He founded bookstores, purchased real estate, and wrote theater reviews for Vossische Zeitung. Through the literary society "New Society on Wednesdays," he met prominent writers like Eichendorff, Immermann, and Hauff.
Political Activism and the Revolution of 1848
Alexis was a vocal supporter of revolutionary ideas and was known as the "Red Republican." However, he was disappointed by the failure of the 1848 revolution and was forced to leave Berlin due to criticism.
Later Years and Legacy
After spending time in Rome, Alexis returned home and settled in Arnstadt. He suffered two strokes, severely impairing his memory and ability to write. Despite his financial struggles, he received assistance from the German Schiller Foundation.
In 1867, the paralyzed and frail Alexis was awarded the Order of the House of Hohenzollern. He was buried in Arnstadt's Old Cemetery, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneer of historical fiction and an influential figure in German literature.
