New Book Uncovers Goethe's 53-Year Friendship with Prince Carl August

Sigrid Damm has published a new book exploring the 53-year partnership between Goethe and Prince Carl August. The work, titled Goethe and Carl August – Changes in a Friendship, offers a dynamic account of their deep bond. It was released in Berlin in 2020, spanning 300 pages and priced at €24. The book presents a double portrait of the poet and his prince, structured into seven main chapters. It begins and ends with a section on Goethe, capturing the evolving nature of their relationship. Their friendship, though marked by physical separations, remained strong thanks to the Grand Duke’s generous support.

Under Carl August’s patronage, Goethe thrived at the Weimar court. There, he expanded his literary work and pursued scientific interests. Damm’s latest title builds on her extensive research, as she has previously written seven books about Goethe, including studies on his connections with Gotha.

Sigrid Damm is a prolific author, particularly known for her works on Weimar poets. Her books about Christiane Vulpius, Cornelia Goethe, and Charlotte von Stein have drawn significant attention, especially from female readers. She has played a key role in bringing figures like Goethe, Schiller, and Lenz to modern audiences.

In recognition of her contributions, she received the Weimar Prize at the German National Theatre in October 2020. She celebrated her 80th birthday on 7 December the same year. The book highlights the enduring friendship between Goethe and Carl August. Their collaboration shaped Goethe’s career and left a lasting mark on German literature. Damm’s work ensures their story reaches new generations of readers.