The German Classics of the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries, Volume 02Masterpieces of German Literature Translated into English. in Twenty Volumes

“The German Classics of the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries, Volume 02” by Francke is a collection of notable works from German literature, translated into English and published in the early 20th century. This volume prominently features Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s novel “The Elective Affinities,” which explores complex themes of love, desire, and the nuances of human relationships. The story revolves around Edward and Charlotte, a married couple whose lives are disrupted by the arrival of their friend, the Captain, and Charlotte’s niece, Ottilie, leading to tragic consequences instigated by hidden passions and emotional entanglements. The opening of “The Elective Affinities” introduces Edward, a wealthy nobleman, as he enjoys a fine April morning engaged in gardening before inquiring about his wife, Charlotte. Their conversation reveals the characters’ dynamics and the delicate balance of their lives. As Edward proposes inviting the Captain, Charlotte expresses concern, foreshadowing tension in their marital relationship. The narrative sets the stage for the exploration of elective affinities in both chemistry and human emotions, presenting a poignant tale as it dives into the ramifications of desire and the intricacies of loyalty, revealing an underlying tragedy that beckons as human connections become entangled and fraught with consequences.