Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was a prolific German writer born in 1749 who made contributions across multiple genres. He studied law but also had passions for science, art, and literature. Some of his most famous works include the novels The Sorrows of Young Werther and Faust, as well as poems like The Lovely Night. Goethe had various romantic relationships throughout his life and served in leadership roles for the Duke of Weimar, where he spent much of his career. He is considered one of the most influential figures in German literature.