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Historical FiguresPoet, Writer, Journalist, Social Critic

Heinrich Heine

1797 - 1856

German Romantic poet and satirist who created Book of Songs, pioneered political satire, spent 25 years Paris exile, and influenced European literature through lyrical poetry and sharp social criticism.

Quick Facts

Born

1797

Died

1856

Profession

Poet, Writer, Journalist, Social Critic

Nationality

German

Biography

Heinrich Heine represents German Romantic poet who established international literary reputation through Buch der Lieder (Book of Songs, 1827) frequently set to music by Schumann, Schubert, major composers creating lasting cultural influence. Düsseldorf birthplace (1797-1856) to assimilated Jewish family, university education Bonn, Göttingen, Berlin studying law while focusing poetry, literature, intellectual development. Paris exile (1831-1856) includes 25 years as expatriate following July Revolution 1830, literary personality transformation, prominent cultural connections, creative period, international recognition. Political satire encompasses radical views, German authorities censorship, 1835 Federal Diet nationwide ban, satirical attacks against kings, ruling class, political torpor, social criticism. Literary evolution includes Romanticism beginning, irony-sarcasm addition, satirical wit development, Young Germany movement participation, political engagement, social reform advocacy. Deutschland Ein Wintermärchen represents satirical masterpiece attacking political situation, contemporary society, ruling class critique, cultural commentary, radical poetry. Lyrical poetry includes early romantic works, later sophisticated verse, Romanzero (1851), final poems considered finest achievements, musical settings, cultural heritage. Modern legacy encompasses literary influence, political engagement, satirical tradition, cultural criticism, international recognition creating exceptional German literary heritage, Romantic poetry, political satire, international cultural significance.

Historical Significance

Major figure of German Romanticism, influential poet whose works became part of German cultural heritage

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