Discuss the relationship between the individual and society in The Sufferings of Young Werther by Goethe. What characteristics of Werther's individuality make him incapable of assuming a “normal” position within society? It is correct to suggest that there is an interdependent relationship between the individual and society. It is also correct to say that for both the individual and society to thrive, the two entities must complement each other in terms of values, beliefs and needs. One can perceive that through carefully constructed characterization throughout his 18th century novel "The Sufferings 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, having been rejected by society, can become a body of self-destruction and the way in which relationships within society can be shaped in response to conflicting perspectives of the individual and society as a whole. Due to the interdependent relationship between individual and society, social values ​​can greatly influence the individual. It can be said that Goethe's characterization of Lotte and Werther clearly depicts this notion in several outcomes. Lotte is described as a compassionate and loyal character whose relationship with Werther depicts her as somewhat naive. Although she has convinced herself for most of the novel that her feelings for Werther are due to a sibling bond, Lotte acknowledges her individual desire to want to "keep [Werther] to herself." (82) Throughout the novel, the heart and soul symbolize passionate love. With "her heart tight, and a dark cloud [looming] over her eyes", Lotte... at the center of the card... but returns and all is sick/dying, recurring plot reflecting her dependent attitude Re : ants -> see as destruction of society• Re: Prince regarding creativity? Maybe. Re: death scene• Horse (free from itself)• The long sequence of death (perhaps punishment for turning against society)• Imperfection... world order... pg 138 Getting lost in romantic dreams - Goethe pg 129 re: intertextuality, becomes Ossian or Madman Loved Lotte Suggesting that freedom from society equals happiness, but he has completely lost himself because they are mad, really. o Murder Obsession with lover If I can't have her, no one can, reflecting Lotte's idea of ​​Werther Both seem to see their actions (murder and suicide) as a tribute to their love• Lotte has touched the gun, ergo sanctioned suicide or He could engage in religious blood sacrifice if time permits