Discuss the relationship between the individual and society in Goethe's The Sorrows of Young Werther. What characteristics of Werther's individuality make him unable to assume a "normal" position within society? It is fair to suggest that there is a relationship of interdependence between the individual and society. It is also correct to state that for the individual and society to flourish, the two entities must complement each other in terms of values, beliefs and needs. It can be perceived that through carefully constructed characterization throughout his 18th century novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther", Johann Wolfgang von Goethe holistically describes the way in which the relationship between society and the individual can shape the individual, how the individual, after being rejected from society, can become a body of self-destruction and how relationships within society can be shaped in response to the conflicting perspectives of the individual and the society as a whole. Due to the interdependent relationship between the individual and society, societal values ​​can greatly influence the individual. Goethe's characterization of Lotte and Werther can be said to clearly describe this notion in various forms. Lotte is portrayed as a compassionate and loyal character whose relationship with Werther portrays her as somewhat naive. Although she has convinced herself throughout most of the novel that her feelings for Werther are due to a sisterly connection, Lotte recognizes her individual desire to want to "keep [Werther] to herself." (82) Throughout the novel, the heart and soul symbolize passionate love. With "her heart aching and a dark cloud [hanging] over her eyes", Lotte ...... middle of paper ...... but returns and everything is sick/dying, recurring plotline reflecting her addictive attitude Re: ants -> see it as a destruction of society• Re: Prince about creativity? Maybe. Re: death scene• Horse (liberated from self)• The long death sequence (punishment for turning on society perhaps)• Imperfection... world order... p. 138 Gets lost in romantic dreams - Goethe p. 129 re: intertextuality, becomes Ossian o Madman Loved Lotte Suggesting that society's freedom equals happiness, but is completely lost because they are truly crazy. o Murder Obsessed with the lover If I can't have him, no one can, reflecting Werther's idea of ​​Lotte Both seem to see their actions (murder and suicide) as a tribute to their love• Lotte touched the gun, therefore sanctioned suicide o Could result in a religious blood sacrifice if time permits