August Wilhelm von Schlegel

Born in Hanover in 1767, August Wilhelm von Schlegel became one of the central figures of Jena Romanticism alongside his brother Friedrich. He built his reputation as a critic, poet, and translator, and his German versions of Shakespeare were especially influential, giving the plays a lasting place in German literary culture.

His career ranged far beyond translation. He lectured and wrote on literature and dramatic art, and later developed strong scholarly interests in Oriental studies and Indology. He also spent important years connected with Madame de Staël's circle, which helped spread German Romantic ideas across Europe.

Schlegel died in Bonn in 1845. He is remembered as a writer who combined literary flair with serious scholarship, helping connect German Romantic thought with both European classics and the study of ancient Indian texts.