Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born to a prosperous family. His father was an imperial councillor.

Goethe began studying law at Leipzig University, though he devoted more time to literature and art.

Goethe completed his law degree and met Herder, who introduced him to Shakespeare and folk poetry.

His drama Götz von Berlichingen launched the Sturm und Drang movement and made him famous.

His epistolary novel became a European sensation and defined the Romantic sensibility of an era.

Duke Carl August invited Goethe to Weimar. He would spend the rest of his life there.

Goethe was ennobled, becoming von Goethe. He served as privy councillor and minister.

Goethe traveled to Italy for two years, transforming his artistic vision toward classical ideals.

Goethe began his relationship with Christiane Vulpius. They would eventually marry in 1806.

Goethe published his botanical study proposing that all plants derive from a single archetypal form.

Goethe began his famous friendship with Friedrich Schiller, lasting until Schiller's death in 1805.

The first part of his masterpiece Faust was published after decades of work on the project.

Goethe published his controversial theory of colors, challenging Newton's optics.

His poetry collection inspired by Persian poet Hafiz explored the meeting of Eastern and Western culture.

Goethe completed his novel Wilhelm Meister's Journeyman Years, culminating the Bildungsroman tradition.

Goethe completed Faust Part Two shortly before his death, sealing it to be published posthumously.

Goethe died with legendary last words 'More light!' He was buried in the Weimar Princely Vault.

Goethe is regarded as the greatest German literary figure, influencing world literature, philosophy, and science.