I see not what is
to come of it all, and only conjecture, from the violence of the
fermentation, that something strange may come.
to come of it all, and only conjecture, from the violence of the
fermentation, that something strange may come.
Thomas Carlyle
We even paint day-dreams of spending
next winter, or the following summer, in Weimar. (63-68. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 14th March. --I shall be glad if the
enclosed (the Testimonial), unfortunately delayed, should arrive
in time. A little box was sent from here on the 2oth of
January, and I hope proved welcome. Let me have news
of it, and greet your dear wife from me and mine. (68-70. )
Carlyle to Goethe, l 8th April. --The box was long delayed
by the severe winter, but is now here in perfect safety: our
best thanks are heartily yours. I have already written to Sir
Walter Scott, announcing your delightful message. Within
the last six years, the readers of your language here must have
increased tenfold. Sorry am I to tell you that Des Voeux's
translation of Tasso is unequivocally trivial: instances of its
insufficiency. I shall never cease to value your Testimonial,
although for the present occasion it was too late. A Captain
Skinner called here with your card, and delighted us by sing-
ing Kennst du das Land. (81-90. )
Mrs. Carlyle to Goethe, loth June. --I embrace the oppor-
tunity of sending you by Mr. May the continued assurance of
our affection and grateful regard. (91. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 15th June. ---Your richly filled letter
reached me in due time. Mr. Skinner is again with us, and
gives us good and pleasant news of you and your surroundings.
Perhaps never before did one nation take such pains to under-
stand another as Scotland now does in respect to Germany.
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? 34>> SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
The unlucky Werner. Am greatly pleased with your treatment
of Helena. Dr. Eckermann almost one of my family. The
translation of Wallenstein has made a quite peculiar impression
upon me: pray tell me the name of the translator. A trans-
lator works not only for his own nation, but also for the one
from whose language he translates. A letter enclosed from
the good Eckermann. Alas, as I close this letter, there comes
upon us the sad news of our excellent Prince's death. (91-
104. )
Eckermann to Carlyle, 1 5lh June. --You live much in our
thoughts at this moment, through your criticism of Helena.
French and Russian criticisms of the same. Your translation
convinced me, for the first time, that it may be possible to
render Faust perfectly in a foreign language. It could, I am
sure, find no better translator than yourself. You will go on
prospering in your studies, and England will owe you gratitude
for them. I hope soon to hear direct from you how you and
your amiable lady have settled yourselves in your new home
in the country. (104-111. )
Goethe to Carlyle (continuation of preceding letter). --
Ottilie sends her most cordial greetings to Mrs. Carlyle. A
piece of embroidery should have gone with this despatch. We Germans, like you, are occupying ourselves with foreign litera-
ture. Greet your dear wife from me, and give me soon some
clear idea of your present abode (Craigenputtock). (1 I 1-1 I 5. )
The same, 8th August. -- The most sad calamity has
befallen us in the death of our estimable Prince, as I have
already announced. You will sympathise with me in the con-
dition in which, after more than fifty years of life together, I
am left by the loss. Meanwhile it is a necessity diligently to
maintain all my remaining connections with life. Fare you
well, and let me hear from you soon. (115-117. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 25th September 1828. --The book-parcel
arrived last night: all in perfect safety, Books, Music, and
Manuscript. One dainty little article I already notice, your
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 349
translation of our ancient Scottish "Schwank," Get up and bar
the door. Scotland is very rich in popular songs. In trying
bereavements, when old friends are snatched away from you,
it must be a consolation to think that, neither in this age nor
in any other, can you ever be alone. Sir Walter Scott received
the Medals several months ago. George Moir is the name of
the translator of Wallenstein. Articles on German Literature.
Burns. Description of Craigenputtock. Jane unites with me
in affectionate respects to your Ottilie, whom in many a day-
dream we still hope to see and know in her Father's circle.
Pray assure Dr. Eckermann of my regard, and purpose to
express it directly. (117-127. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 25th June 1829. --Were an echo to
reach you as often as we think and speak of you, you would
often be aware of a friendly presence. I am now addressing
a written conversation from my "fireside" to yours. When
I visit distant friends in thought, I do not like to let my
imagination wander in space. I therefore beg for myself a
sketch of your dwelling and its surroundings. With your
countryman, Burns, I am sufficiently acquainted to prize him,
but the Scotch dialect is very perplexing to us. I now
announce the speedy despatch of a box, containing the Fourth
and Fifth Sections of my Works, with something pleasant from
the ladies of my household. (127-138. ) Eckermann to Carlyle, 2d July. --Your valued letter of
December last gave me much pleasure. Your article on
Goethe in the Foreign Review has excited great interest in
Germany. I could say a great deal about the new and
extended edition of the Wanderjahre. If you had courage to
pull your volume to pieces, and, on this new basis, reconstruct
the whole, one might hope your country would be grateful to
you. Goethe enjoys most excellent health, and we have the
joyful hope that he may live and work amongst us for many
years to come. (139-145. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 6th July. --The parcel already announced
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? 3JO SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
is only now being despatched. It contains the final proof-
sheets of a translation of your Life of Schiller. On the 28th
of August I beg you quietly to keep my eightieth birthday.
At the bottom of the little box there is lying a gift sent by
the ladies of my family, with the friendliest feelings. (145-
151. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 3d November. --Your much prized letter
and packet have both arrived in perfect safety and entireness.
Six years ago, the possibility of a Letter, of a Present from
Goethe to me, would have seemed little less wondrous and
dreamlike than from Shakespeare or Homer. My wife bids
me say that she intends to read your entire Works this winter:
she sends her best thanks to your Ottilie for the beautiful
gift. Thanks also for the volume sent, in which I can already
discover no little matter for reflection. The Farbenlehre I
have never seen, and shall thankfully accept and study. I
still remember that it was the desire to read Werner's Miner-
alogical Doctrines in the original, that first set me on studying
German. A little packet, chiefly for your Ottilie, is getting
ready. In regard to my employments, I am still but an
Essayist, and longing more than ever to be a Writer in a far
better sense. (152-159. )
The same, 22d December. --The promised packet at length
sets out, with true wishes on our part that it may find you
happy and busy, and bring kind remembrances of friends that
love you. The Craigenputtock Sketches are from the pencil
of Mr. Moir, the translator of Wallenstein, to whom I have
presented the last of the four Medals. The portfolio is of
my wife's manufacture, who sends among other love-tokens a
lock of her hair. She begs and hopes that you will send her
a lock of yours in return. The Cawper's Poems you are to
accept as a New-year's gift from me. A knowledge of German
literature is fast spreading over all the domains of the English
tongue. Have almost decided to write a History of German
Literature; but still purpose to try something infinitely greater.
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 351
Alas, the huge formless Chaos is here, but no creative voice to
say, " Let there be light. " (159-165. )
Carlyle to Eckermann, 20th March 1830. --No spot on
the globe is at present so significant to me as Weimar. We are still speculating on a winter's residence there. A little
box recently despatched. Was shocked to hear of Mu? liner's
death. Increasing attention amongst us to the Literature of
neighbouring nations. My projected History of German
Literature. A few words from you might save me much
groping. My wife sends her kind regards, and continued hope
of one day seeing you. (165-173. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 13th April. --The precious casket, after
long delay owing to the extreme severity of the winter, at last
arrived safely. I will mention first the incomparable lock of
hair. I did not need to touch my skull to become aware that
only stubble was left there. The impossibility of making the
desired return smote my heart. The elegant Scotch Bonnet,
I can assure you, has given much pleasure. Ottilie sends her
most grateful thanks. Let me announce the despatch of another
parcel in return, which will contain, with other books, the final
proof-sheets of the translation of your Schiller. I trust you
will not regard the use I have made of some portions of our
correspondence as an indiscretion. Tell me how you propose
to introduce German literature amongst your people, and I will
gladly give you my thoughts on the sequence of its epochs. Dr.
Eckermann is making a journey south with my son. (173-184. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 23d May. --Our long-cherished hope of
seeing you in person now assumes some faint shape of possi-
bility. We have been pondering together over that glorious
Mahrchen of yours, and I have promised my wife some day to
write a commentary on it. In regard to my History of Ger-
man Literature, I need not say that no words of yours can be
other than valuable. For your guidance in this charitable
service, I will try to explain as clearly as I can the scope of
my project. My wife unites with me in friendliest wishes.
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? 352 SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
Few men have been permitted to finish such a task as yours.
(184-193. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 6th June. --Yourvalued letter took only four-
teen days in coming, and this incites me to write immediately.
No alterations to be suggested in your proposed book: only a
few gaps here and there. I will immediately despatch books in
aid, and some further works of my own. Illustrations and
Preface to the German translation of Schiller. To your dear
wife my most friendly greetings: by means of the silhouette
she has come much nearer to us. May she now send us such
another portrait of her husband. I am glad that famous
Miihrchen does not fail in its effect. A normal imagination
irresistibly demands from it something logical and consistent,
which reason never succeeds in accomplishing. However I
possess two interpretations, which I will seek out, and if
possible send in the little box. A peerless lock of black
hair impels me to add with true regret that the desired return
is, alas, impossible. (193-207. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 31st August. --The packet, containing
books and other valuables, arrived in perfect order. The
bibliopolic fate of that History of German Literature, in
which you are pleased to take an interest, has become more
dubious than ever. Nor do I much regret it: my first pro-
fessed appearance in Literature may now take place under
some less questionable character than that of a Compiler. A
wonderful Chaos within me, full of natural Supernaturalism
and all manner of Antediluvian fragments.
I see not what is
to come of it all, and only conjecture, from the violence of the
fermentation, that something strange may come. Goethe-
Schiller Correspondence. The promised interpretation of the
Miihrchen still earnestly wanted by the female intellect. I
had a strange letter with certain strange books, from the
Saint-Simonians in Paris; if you have chanced to notice that
affair, I could like much to hear your thoughts. (207-215. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 5th October. --Once more a little box is
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 353
going to you; and at last the Life of Schiller in German trans-
lation. May you succeed in making your nation acquainted
with the good points of the Germans. Constantly, at all
epochs and in every place, the result should be to exhibit,
transmit, and if possible establish, something beneficial to
mankind. Our Berlin friends (the Society for Foreign Litera-
ture) have sent me a Diploma, in which they appoint Mr.
Thomas Carlyle of Craigenputtock a foreign honorary mem-
ber. (215-224. )
The same, 17th October. --I now enclose you the letter
from the Berlin Society, in which their resolution concerning
you was transmitted to me. From the St. Simonian Society
pray hold yourself aloof: more about this on another occasion.
(224-227. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 23d October. --From the first sentence
of your otherwise most welcome letter, I fear that mine of
August may have failed to reach you, but will still hope that
it was not so. Schiller and Burns. The peculiar expressive-
ness of the latter's diction, at all times hard to be seized by a
translator: the whole British nation passionately attached to
him. Our kindest wishes every way to Ottilie. (227-236. )
The same, 15th November. --The box, with all its precious
contents, arrived in perfect order. I now enclose a few lines
of thanks to our Berlin friends. Your Introduction to Schiller
fitter to have stood at the head of some Epic Poem of my
writing than here. Am sometimes meditating a translation
of Faust, for which the English world is getting more and
more prepared. Postscript of grateful thanks from Mrs.
Carlyle. (236-242. )
Eckermann to Carlyle, 6th December. -- I returned to
Weimar last week alone. Herr von Goethe, the son, as you
perhaps have heard, died at Rome. Goethe also has had so
violent a hemorrhage of the lungs that his life was in danger;
but he is now up again and busy in his usual ways. I now
look forward to the completion of Faust, of which so much is
2A
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? 354 SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
finished. It is not for me to offer advice, but were I in your
place I would employ my best leisure hours on a faithful trans-
lation. One should never ask if a nation is ready for a work:
nations are matured by daring works. Postscript, by Goethe,
giving assurance of his improved health; with greetings and
blessings to the dear Pair. (242-252. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 22d January 1831. --Words of sympathy
and comfort. Your being busy with a Continuation of Faust
could not be other than great news to me. Have almost de-
termined upon attempting a translation. Taylor's Historic
Survey of German Poetry, which I am reviewing, you may
judge of by the fact that the longest article but one is on
August von Kotzebue. I fear you will not like the satirical
style, but all the more agreeable will be some concluding
speculations, on what after you I have called World-Literature,
with its "Sacred College and Council of Amphictyons. "
Meanwhile, I am working at another curious enterprise of my
own (Sartor Resartus), which is yet too amorphous to be
prophesied of. A little collection of Memorials is getting
together for the next 28th of August. The Saint-Simonians
have again communicated with me. Although wandering in
strange paths, I cannot but look upon their Society and its
progress as a true and remarkable Sign of the Times. The
world is heavily struggling out into a new era; but the Sun
and Seasons are the only changes that visit this wilderness.
(252-260. )
Hitzig to Carlyle, 28th January. --Explaining the objects
of the Berlin Society for Foreign Literature. (260-264. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 2d June. --We have been so secluded of
late, that we have been like to form a kind of Craigenputtock
in the midst of Weimar. Another package of books getting
ready. The good Eckermann of great value to me. Neu-
reuther's Marginal Drawings. Poetry will always remain the
happy refuge of Mankind. Mrs. Carlyle requested to contri-
bute to Ottilie's Periodical, called Chaos. The Metamorphosis
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 355
of Plants. Many good and beautiful hours are still granted
us. The fairest greetings from me and Ottilie for the dear
pair of hermits. (264-276. )
The same, 15th June. --Just as I am about to close the box,
I find there is still room; I am therefore having packed up
for you some numbers of one of our most popular journals,
the Morgenblatt. There is also a copy of the translation of
Schiller for my lady friend, to show her how even the book-
binders of the Continent study neatness and elegance.
(276-278. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 10th June. --Daily do I send affectionate
wishes to the Man, to whom more than any other living, I
stand indebted and united. A little poetic Tugcndbund of
Philo-Germans is forming itself in London, whereof you are
the Centre; the first public act of which should come to light
at Weimar on your approaching Birthday. Of this little
Philo-German Combination; what it now specially proposes,
and whether it is likely to grow into a more lasting union for
more complex purposes,--I hope to speak hereafter. Interest-
ing phenomena of hopeful significance. In these last months
I have been busy with a Piece more immediately my own;
but, alas, it is not a Picture that I am painting, but a half-
reckless casting of the brush, with its many frustrated colours,
against the canvas: whether it will make good Foam is still
a venture. In some six weeks I expect to be in London,
wishing to look a little with my own eyes at the world, getting
so enigmatic. (279-286. )
The same, 13th August. --I now send you a word of remem-
brance from this chaotic whirlpool of a city, where I arrived
three days ago. Endless gratitude I owe you, for it is by you
that I have learned what worth there is in man for his
brother-man; and how the "open secret" is still open for
whoso has an eye. A birthday gift from "Fifteen English
Friends " should reach you on your Birthday. Let me hope it
may arrive in due season, and the sight of it give you some
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? 356 SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
gratifying moments. I have come hither chiefly to dispose of
the Piece which I lately described myself as writing: meant
to be a "word spoken in season. " But the whole world here
is dancing a Tarantula Dance of Political Reform, and has no
ear left for Literature. Figure me and mine as thinking of
you, loving you; as present especially on that 28th, with
wishes as warm as loving hearts can feel. (287-291. )
Fifteen English Friends to Goethe. --Begging his accept-
ance of a Birthday Gift, as a true testimony of their feelings of reverence and gratitude towards him. (292-294. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 19th August. --Poetical thanks to "the
Fifteen. "--Britons ye have understood: The mind active, the
deed restrained, the purpose unhastingly steadfast. In the
books you sent I find much that is delightful. The silhouettes,
in an inconceivable way, bring the absent before one. The
gift of the associated friends has afforded us a pleasure as
unusual as unexpected. To the dear Pair, happy hours!
(295-298. )
Appendix II
Goethe to Carlyle, 14th June 1830. --Contents of packet
sent. (See Letter XXVII. p. 193. ) Chaos, a weekly paper, con-
taining social pleasantries, for private circulation. Ottilie, the
sole editor; further favours from our friends in the county of
Dumfries are requested. Hope to send you the translation of
Schiller, in its complete form by the next despatch. (324-327. ) Eckermann to Carlyle, 20th October 1832. --At the desire
of many friends I have translated your first article on Goethe.
(The article, Death of Goethe) I send you to-day two books
which will interest you. Am very busy with Goethe's Post-
humous Works. Doubt if I shall remain in Weimar for the
future. Herr Schwerdgeburth sends you his new portrait of
Goethe, one of the best that has appeared. Pray give my
cordial greetings to Mrs. Carlyle. I hope you will soon
receive a letter from Madame von Goethe herself. (328-332. )
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 357
The same, 10th November 1833. --This is the third letter I
write to you, without knowing whether one of them has
reached you. I now send you the announcement of the
Correspondence between Goethe and Zelter, and the Preface to
it. I trust I may soon hear something from you. (334-337-)
Carlyle to Eckermann, 6th May 1834. --Your kind letter
of the 10th of November reached me only a few days ago.
Your letter of last summer never arrived, and two of mine
seem to have been lost. My last from you was the Weimar
packet of the previous winter, which arrived in perfect safety,
and to which I at once gratefully and copiously replied. And
now, dear Eckermann, after such an interval, pray accept
yourself, and present to our friends, all the thanks you can
imagine me to have expressed. With Whitsuntide we are
to be in London. I have for a long time been in a kind of
spiritual crisis; and you will know how horrible it is to speak
of it, until its issue has become clear. Have had as good as
no concern with German Literature; although my Goethe,
with all that pertains to him, grows greater and ever truer the
more I attain to clearness in myself. My mission, if it may be
so called, of introducing German Literature here, may now be
regarded as fulfilled. Two new translations of Faust in one
day. The fire is kindled, and we have smoke enough: it will
some day be all flame and clear light. "Do thou take thy
bellows, and go elsewhere! " This is one of the aspects of
my spiritual crisis. When we have cast anchor in London
you shall hear from me again. Are we not to see you face
to face in the modern Babel? The lady returns your kind
greetings. Orapro nobis. (337-342. )
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? INDEX
AUSTIN'S, Mrs. , Characteristics of
Goethe, 340; mentioned, 341.
BENTINCK, the Lords, take charge
of a packet from Goethe to
Carlyle, 5, 6.
Berlin Society for Foreign Litera-
ture, 223; letter to Goethe, in-
forming him that Carlyle had
been elected an honorary mem-
ber, 227; to Carlyle, explaining
the objects of the Society, 262;
Goethe's dedication to, of Car-
lyle's Life of Schiller, 299-301.
Boisseree, Dr.
next winter, or the following summer, in Weimar. (63-68. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 14th March. --I shall be glad if the
enclosed (the Testimonial), unfortunately delayed, should arrive
in time. A little box was sent from here on the 2oth of
January, and I hope proved welcome. Let me have news
of it, and greet your dear wife from me and mine. (68-70. )
Carlyle to Goethe, l 8th April. --The box was long delayed
by the severe winter, but is now here in perfect safety: our
best thanks are heartily yours. I have already written to Sir
Walter Scott, announcing your delightful message. Within
the last six years, the readers of your language here must have
increased tenfold. Sorry am I to tell you that Des Voeux's
translation of Tasso is unequivocally trivial: instances of its
insufficiency. I shall never cease to value your Testimonial,
although for the present occasion it was too late. A Captain
Skinner called here with your card, and delighted us by sing-
ing Kennst du das Land. (81-90. )
Mrs. Carlyle to Goethe, loth June. --I embrace the oppor-
tunity of sending you by Mr. May the continued assurance of
our affection and grateful regard. (91. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 15th June. ---Your richly filled letter
reached me in due time. Mr. Skinner is again with us, and
gives us good and pleasant news of you and your surroundings.
Perhaps never before did one nation take such pains to under-
stand another as Scotland now does in respect to Germany.
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? 34>> SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
The unlucky Werner. Am greatly pleased with your treatment
of Helena. Dr. Eckermann almost one of my family. The
translation of Wallenstein has made a quite peculiar impression
upon me: pray tell me the name of the translator. A trans-
lator works not only for his own nation, but also for the one
from whose language he translates. A letter enclosed from
the good Eckermann. Alas, as I close this letter, there comes
upon us the sad news of our excellent Prince's death. (91-
104. )
Eckermann to Carlyle, 1 5lh June. --You live much in our
thoughts at this moment, through your criticism of Helena.
French and Russian criticisms of the same. Your translation
convinced me, for the first time, that it may be possible to
render Faust perfectly in a foreign language. It could, I am
sure, find no better translator than yourself. You will go on
prospering in your studies, and England will owe you gratitude
for them. I hope soon to hear direct from you how you and
your amiable lady have settled yourselves in your new home
in the country. (104-111. )
Goethe to Carlyle (continuation of preceding letter). --
Ottilie sends her most cordial greetings to Mrs. Carlyle. A
piece of embroidery should have gone with this despatch. We Germans, like you, are occupying ourselves with foreign litera-
ture. Greet your dear wife from me, and give me soon some
clear idea of your present abode (Craigenputtock). (1 I 1-1 I 5. )
The same, 8th August. -- The most sad calamity has
befallen us in the death of our estimable Prince, as I have
already announced. You will sympathise with me in the con-
dition in which, after more than fifty years of life together, I
am left by the loss. Meanwhile it is a necessity diligently to
maintain all my remaining connections with life. Fare you
well, and let me hear from you soon. (115-117. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 25th September 1828. --The book-parcel
arrived last night: all in perfect safety, Books, Music, and
Manuscript. One dainty little article I already notice, your
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 349
translation of our ancient Scottish "Schwank," Get up and bar
the door. Scotland is very rich in popular songs. In trying
bereavements, when old friends are snatched away from you,
it must be a consolation to think that, neither in this age nor
in any other, can you ever be alone. Sir Walter Scott received
the Medals several months ago. George Moir is the name of
the translator of Wallenstein. Articles on German Literature.
Burns. Description of Craigenputtock. Jane unites with me
in affectionate respects to your Ottilie, whom in many a day-
dream we still hope to see and know in her Father's circle.
Pray assure Dr. Eckermann of my regard, and purpose to
express it directly. (117-127. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 25th June 1829. --Were an echo to
reach you as often as we think and speak of you, you would
often be aware of a friendly presence. I am now addressing
a written conversation from my "fireside" to yours. When
I visit distant friends in thought, I do not like to let my
imagination wander in space. I therefore beg for myself a
sketch of your dwelling and its surroundings. With your
countryman, Burns, I am sufficiently acquainted to prize him,
but the Scotch dialect is very perplexing to us. I now
announce the speedy despatch of a box, containing the Fourth
and Fifth Sections of my Works, with something pleasant from
the ladies of my household. (127-138. ) Eckermann to Carlyle, 2d July. --Your valued letter of
December last gave me much pleasure. Your article on
Goethe in the Foreign Review has excited great interest in
Germany. I could say a great deal about the new and
extended edition of the Wanderjahre. If you had courage to
pull your volume to pieces, and, on this new basis, reconstruct
the whole, one might hope your country would be grateful to
you. Goethe enjoys most excellent health, and we have the
joyful hope that he may live and work amongst us for many
years to come. (139-145. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 6th July. --The parcel already announced
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? 3JO SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
is only now being despatched. It contains the final proof-
sheets of a translation of your Life of Schiller. On the 28th
of August I beg you quietly to keep my eightieth birthday.
At the bottom of the little box there is lying a gift sent by
the ladies of my family, with the friendliest feelings. (145-
151. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 3d November. --Your much prized letter
and packet have both arrived in perfect safety and entireness.
Six years ago, the possibility of a Letter, of a Present from
Goethe to me, would have seemed little less wondrous and
dreamlike than from Shakespeare or Homer. My wife bids
me say that she intends to read your entire Works this winter:
she sends her best thanks to your Ottilie for the beautiful
gift. Thanks also for the volume sent, in which I can already
discover no little matter for reflection. The Farbenlehre I
have never seen, and shall thankfully accept and study. I
still remember that it was the desire to read Werner's Miner-
alogical Doctrines in the original, that first set me on studying
German. A little packet, chiefly for your Ottilie, is getting
ready. In regard to my employments, I am still but an
Essayist, and longing more than ever to be a Writer in a far
better sense. (152-159. )
The same, 22d December. --The promised packet at length
sets out, with true wishes on our part that it may find you
happy and busy, and bring kind remembrances of friends that
love you. The Craigenputtock Sketches are from the pencil
of Mr. Moir, the translator of Wallenstein, to whom I have
presented the last of the four Medals. The portfolio is of
my wife's manufacture, who sends among other love-tokens a
lock of her hair. She begs and hopes that you will send her
a lock of yours in return. The Cawper's Poems you are to
accept as a New-year's gift from me. A knowledge of German
literature is fast spreading over all the domains of the English
tongue. Have almost decided to write a History of German
Literature; but still purpose to try something infinitely greater.
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 351
Alas, the huge formless Chaos is here, but no creative voice to
say, " Let there be light. " (159-165. )
Carlyle to Eckermann, 20th March 1830. --No spot on
the globe is at present so significant to me as Weimar. We are still speculating on a winter's residence there. A little
box recently despatched. Was shocked to hear of Mu? liner's
death. Increasing attention amongst us to the Literature of
neighbouring nations. My projected History of German
Literature. A few words from you might save me much
groping. My wife sends her kind regards, and continued hope
of one day seeing you. (165-173. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 13th April. --The precious casket, after
long delay owing to the extreme severity of the winter, at last
arrived safely. I will mention first the incomparable lock of
hair. I did not need to touch my skull to become aware that
only stubble was left there. The impossibility of making the
desired return smote my heart. The elegant Scotch Bonnet,
I can assure you, has given much pleasure. Ottilie sends her
most grateful thanks. Let me announce the despatch of another
parcel in return, which will contain, with other books, the final
proof-sheets of the translation of your Schiller. I trust you
will not regard the use I have made of some portions of our
correspondence as an indiscretion. Tell me how you propose
to introduce German literature amongst your people, and I will
gladly give you my thoughts on the sequence of its epochs. Dr.
Eckermann is making a journey south with my son. (173-184. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 23d May. --Our long-cherished hope of
seeing you in person now assumes some faint shape of possi-
bility. We have been pondering together over that glorious
Mahrchen of yours, and I have promised my wife some day to
write a commentary on it. In regard to my History of Ger-
man Literature, I need not say that no words of yours can be
other than valuable. For your guidance in this charitable
service, I will try to explain as clearly as I can the scope of
my project. My wife unites with me in friendliest wishes.
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? 352 SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
Few men have been permitted to finish such a task as yours.
(184-193. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 6th June. --Yourvalued letter took only four-
teen days in coming, and this incites me to write immediately.
No alterations to be suggested in your proposed book: only a
few gaps here and there. I will immediately despatch books in
aid, and some further works of my own. Illustrations and
Preface to the German translation of Schiller. To your dear
wife my most friendly greetings: by means of the silhouette
she has come much nearer to us. May she now send us such
another portrait of her husband. I am glad that famous
Miihrchen does not fail in its effect. A normal imagination
irresistibly demands from it something logical and consistent,
which reason never succeeds in accomplishing. However I
possess two interpretations, which I will seek out, and if
possible send in the little box. A peerless lock of black
hair impels me to add with true regret that the desired return
is, alas, impossible. (193-207. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 31st August. --The packet, containing
books and other valuables, arrived in perfect order. The
bibliopolic fate of that History of German Literature, in
which you are pleased to take an interest, has become more
dubious than ever. Nor do I much regret it: my first pro-
fessed appearance in Literature may now take place under
some less questionable character than that of a Compiler. A
wonderful Chaos within me, full of natural Supernaturalism
and all manner of Antediluvian fragments.
I see not what is
to come of it all, and only conjecture, from the violence of the
fermentation, that something strange may come. Goethe-
Schiller Correspondence. The promised interpretation of the
Miihrchen still earnestly wanted by the female intellect. I
had a strange letter with certain strange books, from the
Saint-Simonians in Paris; if you have chanced to notice that
affair, I could like much to hear your thoughts. (207-215. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 5th October. --Once more a little box is
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 353
going to you; and at last the Life of Schiller in German trans-
lation. May you succeed in making your nation acquainted
with the good points of the Germans. Constantly, at all
epochs and in every place, the result should be to exhibit,
transmit, and if possible establish, something beneficial to
mankind. Our Berlin friends (the Society for Foreign Litera-
ture) have sent me a Diploma, in which they appoint Mr.
Thomas Carlyle of Craigenputtock a foreign honorary mem-
ber. (215-224. )
The same, 17th October. --I now enclose you the letter
from the Berlin Society, in which their resolution concerning
you was transmitted to me. From the St. Simonian Society
pray hold yourself aloof: more about this on another occasion.
(224-227. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 23d October. --From the first sentence
of your otherwise most welcome letter, I fear that mine of
August may have failed to reach you, but will still hope that
it was not so. Schiller and Burns. The peculiar expressive-
ness of the latter's diction, at all times hard to be seized by a
translator: the whole British nation passionately attached to
him. Our kindest wishes every way to Ottilie. (227-236. )
The same, 15th November. --The box, with all its precious
contents, arrived in perfect order. I now enclose a few lines
of thanks to our Berlin friends. Your Introduction to Schiller
fitter to have stood at the head of some Epic Poem of my
writing than here. Am sometimes meditating a translation
of Faust, for which the English world is getting more and
more prepared. Postscript of grateful thanks from Mrs.
Carlyle. (236-242. )
Eckermann to Carlyle, 6th December. -- I returned to
Weimar last week alone. Herr von Goethe, the son, as you
perhaps have heard, died at Rome. Goethe also has had so
violent a hemorrhage of the lungs that his life was in danger;
but he is now up again and busy in his usual ways. I now
look forward to the completion of Faust, of which so much is
2A
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? 354 SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
finished. It is not for me to offer advice, but were I in your
place I would employ my best leisure hours on a faithful trans-
lation. One should never ask if a nation is ready for a work:
nations are matured by daring works. Postscript, by Goethe,
giving assurance of his improved health; with greetings and
blessings to the dear Pair. (242-252. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 22d January 1831. --Words of sympathy
and comfort. Your being busy with a Continuation of Faust
could not be other than great news to me. Have almost de-
termined upon attempting a translation. Taylor's Historic
Survey of German Poetry, which I am reviewing, you may
judge of by the fact that the longest article but one is on
August von Kotzebue. I fear you will not like the satirical
style, but all the more agreeable will be some concluding
speculations, on what after you I have called World-Literature,
with its "Sacred College and Council of Amphictyons. "
Meanwhile, I am working at another curious enterprise of my
own (Sartor Resartus), which is yet too amorphous to be
prophesied of. A little collection of Memorials is getting
together for the next 28th of August. The Saint-Simonians
have again communicated with me. Although wandering in
strange paths, I cannot but look upon their Society and its
progress as a true and remarkable Sign of the Times. The
world is heavily struggling out into a new era; but the Sun
and Seasons are the only changes that visit this wilderness.
(252-260. )
Hitzig to Carlyle, 28th January. --Explaining the objects
of the Berlin Society for Foreign Literature. (260-264. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 2d June. --We have been so secluded of
late, that we have been like to form a kind of Craigenputtock
in the midst of Weimar. Another package of books getting
ready. The good Eckermann of great value to me. Neu-
reuther's Marginal Drawings. Poetry will always remain the
happy refuge of Mankind. Mrs. Carlyle requested to contri-
bute to Ottilie's Periodical, called Chaos. The Metamorphosis
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 355
of Plants. Many good and beautiful hours are still granted
us. The fairest greetings from me and Ottilie for the dear
pair of hermits. (264-276. )
The same, 15th June. --Just as I am about to close the box,
I find there is still room; I am therefore having packed up
for you some numbers of one of our most popular journals,
the Morgenblatt. There is also a copy of the translation of
Schiller for my lady friend, to show her how even the book-
binders of the Continent study neatness and elegance.
(276-278. )
Carlyle to Goethe, 10th June. --Daily do I send affectionate
wishes to the Man, to whom more than any other living, I
stand indebted and united. A little poetic Tugcndbund of
Philo-Germans is forming itself in London, whereof you are
the Centre; the first public act of which should come to light
at Weimar on your approaching Birthday. Of this little
Philo-German Combination; what it now specially proposes,
and whether it is likely to grow into a more lasting union for
more complex purposes,--I hope to speak hereafter. Interest-
ing phenomena of hopeful significance. In these last months
I have been busy with a Piece more immediately my own;
but, alas, it is not a Picture that I am painting, but a half-
reckless casting of the brush, with its many frustrated colours,
against the canvas: whether it will make good Foam is still
a venture. In some six weeks I expect to be in London,
wishing to look a little with my own eyes at the world, getting
so enigmatic. (279-286. )
The same, 13th August. --I now send you a word of remem-
brance from this chaotic whirlpool of a city, where I arrived
three days ago. Endless gratitude I owe you, for it is by you
that I have learned what worth there is in man for his
brother-man; and how the "open secret" is still open for
whoso has an eye. A birthday gift from "Fifteen English
Friends " should reach you on your Birthday. Let me hope it
may arrive in due season, and the sight of it give you some
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? 356 SUMMARY OF THE CHIEF
gratifying moments. I have come hither chiefly to dispose of
the Piece which I lately described myself as writing: meant
to be a "word spoken in season. " But the whole world here
is dancing a Tarantula Dance of Political Reform, and has no
ear left for Literature. Figure me and mine as thinking of
you, loving you; as present especially on that 28th, with
wishes as warm as loving hearts can feel. (287-291. )
Fifteen English Friends to Goethe. --Begging his accept-
ance of a Birthday Gift, as a true testimony of their feelings of reverence and gratitude towards him. (292-294. )
Goethe to Carlyle, 19th August. --Poetical thanks to "the
Fifteen. "--Britons ye have understood: The mind active, the
deed restrained, the purpose unhastingly steadfast. In the
books you sent I find much that is delightful. The silhouettes,
in an inconceivable way, bring the absent before one. The
gift of the associated friends has afforded us a pleasure as
unusual as unexpected. To the dear Pair, happy hours!
(295-298. )
Appendix II
Goethe to Carlyle, 14th June 1830. --Contents of packet
sent. (See Letter XXVII. p. 193. ) Chaos, a weekly paper, con-
taining social pleasantries, for private circulation. Ottilie, the
sole editor; further favours from our friends in the county of
Dumfries are requested. Hope to send you the translation of
Schiller, in its complete form by the next despatch. (324-327. ) Eckermann to Carlyle, 20th October 1832. --At the desire
of many friends I have translated your first article on Goethe.
(The article, Death of Goethe) I send you to-day two books
which will interest you. Am very busy with Goethe's Post-
humous Works. Doubt if I shall remain in Weimar for the
future. Herr Schwerdgeburth sends you his new portrait of
Goethe, one of the best that has appeared. Pray give my
cordial greetings to Mrs. Carlyle. I hope you will soon
receive a letter from Madame von Goethe herself. (328-332. )
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? CONTENTS OF EACH LETTER 357
The same, 10th November 1833. --This is the third letter I
write to you, without knowing whether one of them has
reached you. I now send you the announcement of the
Correspondence between Goethe and Zelter, and the Preface to
it. I trust I may soon hear something from you. (334-337-)
Carlyle to Eckermann, 6th May 1834. --Your kind letter
of the 10th of November reached me only a few days ago.
Your letter of last summer never arrived, and two of mine
seem to have been lost. My last from you was the Weimar
packet of the previous winter, which arrived in perfect safety,
and to which I at once gratefully and copiously replied. And
now, dear Eckermann, after such an interval, pray accept
yourself, and present to our friends, all the thanks you can
imagine me to have expressed. With Whitsuntide we are
to be in London. I have for a long time been in a kind of
spiritual crisis; and you will know how horrible it is to speak
of it, until its issue has become clear. Have had as good as
no concern with German Literature; although my Goethe,
with all that pertains to him, grows greater and ever truer the
more I attain to clearness in myself. My mission, if it may be
so called, of introducing German Literature here, may now be
regarded as fulfilled. Two new translations of Faust in one
day. The fire is kindled, and we have smoke enough: it will
some day be all flame and clear light. "Do thou take thy
bellows, and go elsewhere! " This is one of the aspects of
my spiritual crisis. When we have cast anchor in London
you shall hear from me again. Are we not to see you face
to face in the modern Babel? The lady returns your kind
greetings. Orapro nobis. (337-342. )
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? INDEX
AUSTIN'S, Mrs. , Characteristics of
Goethe, 340; mentioned, 341.
BENTINCK, the Lords, take charge
of a packet from Goethe to
Carlyle, 5, 6.
Berlin Society for Foreign Litera-
ture, 223; letter to Goethe, in-
forming him that Carlyle had
been elected an honorary mem-
ber, 227; to Carlyle, explaining
the objects of the Society, 262;
Goethe's dedication to, of Car-
lyle's Life of Schiller, 299-301.
Boisseree, Dr.
