The Works of J.W. von Goethe Vol. XIII (in 14 volumes): with His Life by George Henry Lewes: Life and Works of Goethe Vol. I

Instead therefore of saying that Man is the creature of Circumstance it would be nearer the mark to say that Man is the architect of Circumstance. It is Character which builds an existence out of Circumstance. Our strength is measured by our plastic power. From the same materials one man builds palaces another hovels one warehouses another villas. --George Henry Lewes Life and Works of GoetheLife and Works of Goethe Vol. I (1855) is the first volume of a two-volume biography of Goethe by George Henry Lewes released in The Works of J.W. von Goethe Vol. XIII--Life and Works of Goethe Vol. I part of a 14-volume set originally published in 1901-1902.This volume focuses on Goethes early life until 1779. It draws on letters and recollections provided by Goethes family and friends in creating a portrait of one of Germanys greatest intellectuals. Although this biography was written over 150 years ago it still is a valuable and enjoyable read.