The sorrows of young werther

[MAIO]

suicide is described by Werther as a proof of the strength of human being, who, oppressed by life unhappiness, is eventually able to perform a last titanic action, just like people rising up against a tyrant; like the man who succeeds in saving his belongings from his burning house; or like the warrior who is left alone on the battle field, but still fights against many enemies. Allegedly this book lead to thousands of copy cat suicides, some of which were even turned to the same page in the book where Werther died by suicide.

 

[bigj75]

Very interesting. Reminds me of that scene from 300. Leonidas knew he might not have a chance and was facing death but he stood up for what he believed in even if it meant certain death. Not corrupting his character despite the riches it would have brought him if he did.

 

[Euthanza]

Woe to him who could look on and say: The fool! If she had waited, if she had let time do its work, her despair would surely have subsided, another man would have turned up to comfort her.—That's just like saying: The fool, dying of fever! If he had waited until his strength returned, his circulation improved, the tumult of his blood calmed down, everything would have turned out well and he would still be alive today!

It is decided, Lotte, I want to die, and I write you this without romantic exaggeration, calmly, on the morning of the day on which I shall see you for the last time. When you read this, my dearest, the cool grave will cover the stiff remains of the restless unfortunate, who knows no greater sweetness in the final moments of his life than to converse with you. I have had a horrible night, but oh! one that did me good. The night strengthened my resolve, determined it: I want to die!