Internationales Germanistenlexikon 1800-1950 (German Edition)

Internationales Germanistenlexikon 1800-1950 (German Edition) Review

The Internationales Germanistenlexikon 1800-1950, published by Walter De Gruyter Inc, is a comprehensive biographical dictionary that serves as a vital resource for scholars, researchers, and students interested in the field of German studies. This lexicon provides an exhaustive overview of important figures in German literature, language, and cultural studies from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its extensive entries highlight not only the biographical details but also the contributions made by these individuals to German philology and other related fields.

Content Overview

The lexicon encompasses a wide range of topics related to German literature and intellectual history, covering notable authors, linguists, critics, and scholars. Key attributes include:

• Chronological Coverage: The lexicon focuses on significant figures active between 1800 and 1950, providing a crucial historical context for academic inquiry.
• Diverse Entries: Each entry contains concise yet informative biographies, making it easy for readers to grasp the relevance of each individual within the German literary canon.
• Academic Relevance: The lexicon is particularly valuable for those pursuing research in German Studies, providing context that can aid in understanding the evolution of various literary and linguistic movements.

Structure and Format

The Internationales Germanistenlexikon 1800-1950 is organized alphabetically by the names of individuals, which facilitates quick reference. Additionally, the entries are structured consistently to include:

• Name: The full name of the individual being discussed.
• Date of Birth and Death: Essential biographical details that help situate the individual within a specific historical timeframe.
• Main Contributions: A summary of key works and contributions, including notable publications or scholarly achievements.
• Contextual Significance: Details on how each individual’s work contributed to broader trends in German literature and linguistics.

Audience and Usefulness

This lexicon is an indispensable tool for several audiences:

• Aspiring Scholars: Graduate students or researchers new to German studies will benefit from the readily accessible biographical information that aids in their research projects.
• Linguists and Philologists: Those specializing in language study will find key figures whose work has shaped contemporary understanding of the German language.
• Literature Enthusiasts: Casual readers with an interest in literature may also appreciate the curated summaries of influential authors and their works.

Scholarly Impact

The impact of this lexicon is pronounced among academics. It serves as a reference point for discussions related to various literary theories originating during its coverage period. Some specific areas where this resource is beneficial include:

• Historical Contextualization: By providing detailed biographical information, readers can better understand how historical events influenced literary production in Germany during this era.
• Citation Resource: The entries can act as citations in scholarly works or provide leads to primary texts that may be critical for research papers or dissertations.
• Cross-Referencing Opportunities: With extensive entries, it encourages further exploration into related figures and movements, fostering deeper connections within German studies.

Quality of Scholarship

The quality of scholarship evident in this lexicon is commendable. The editors have curated content that reflects rigorous academic standards. Notable metrics of quality include:

• Citations and References: Each entry often includes citations that direct readers to further readings or relevant works for more comprehensive insights into a particular figure’s contributions.
• Editor Expertise: The editing team comprises recognized authorities in German studies, ensuring that information presented is accurate and reflective of current scholarly discourse.
• Cultural Relevance: The lexicon emphasizes not merely academic pedigree but also cultural significance, making it a multidimensional resource for understanding German literary history.

Accessibility

The lexicon's format is designed to be user-friendly. It is available in digital formats for ease of access, enabling users to query specific entries quickly. This accessibility is particularly advantageous for international scholars who may seek detailed insights without geographical restrictions. Additionally, print copies are also available for traditionalists who prefer physical books over digital formats.

The Internationales Germanistenlexikon 1800-1950, published by Walter De Gruyter Inc, stands as a cornerstone reference that supports scholarship within German studies. Its well-documented entries provide essential information about significant figures that have molded the literary landscape throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of this period in German culture and scholarship, this comprehensive resource proves invaluable.