Interieur van Werther's kamer 1776

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki made this print, Interior of Werther's Room, likely in the late 1700s. It depicts a scene of quiet contemplation. The print provides a glimpse into the cultural phenomenon sparked by Goethe's novel, "The Sorrows of Young Werther." Published in 1774, the book ignited a "Werther fever," especially among young men, leading to discussions of sentimentalism and suicide. Chodowiecki's print creates meaning by depicting the accoutrements of the intellectual life, a writing desk, a quiet place to sit, and a room to shut oneself away from the world. The image invites reflection on the relationship between literature, emotional expression, and the social norms of the time. How did novels influence the emotional lives of readers? How did they respond to social pressure? These are the kinds of questions social historians ask when interpreting art. We need to consult literary sources and popular opinions to understand the cultural significance of works like this.