Anatol / Anatols Groenwahn German Edition - Classic Dramatic Short

In this review of Anatol / Anatols Groenwahn the reviewer finds a compact, character-driven double piece that will appeal to readers of classic German drama and students of fin de siecle theatre. Arthur Schnitzlers short play Anatol, written between 1888 and 1891, and the appended Schlusszene Anatols Groenwahn offer incisive dialogues about love, jealousy and self-deception; the greatest reason to choose this edition is the complete reissue with a biographical note that situates the texts in Schnitzlers early career.

Key Features

• Two related plays in one: Anatol and Anatols Groenwahn are presented together so readers can follow the protagonist from comic hypochondria of love to a darker closing scene.
• Historical context: The edition notes original composition dates and first printings, clarifying that Anatol was composed 1888-1891 and first printed in 1893, while Groenwahn dates from 1891.
• Performance history included: Premiere dates and venues are documented, giving useful reference for theatre students and practitioners researching early 20th century stagings.
• Editorial apparatus: A new complete reissue includes a biographical sketch of Arthur Schnitzler that helps readers understand authorial background and influences.
• Compact text length: The short, episodic structure makes it easy to assign for classes or to read in a single sitting, useful for readers with limited time.

Who It's For

This edition is best for readers interested in German literature, drama scholars, and theatre directors seeking a faithful presentation of Schnitzlers early plays. The explanatory notes and biography make it suitable for academic coursework where context matters.

Readers who want a richly annotated critical edition with extensive commentary or modernized language might look elsewhere; this reissue focuses on faithfully presenting the original texts and historical information rather than exhaustive critical apparatus.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Concise pairing of Anatol and Anatols Groenwahn allows easy comparison of tone and theme.
• Helpful publication and premiere dates aid research and citation.
• The included biography of Arthur Schnitzler provides useful author context for readers.

Cons

• Not a heavily annotated critical edition; readers seeking extensive scholarly notes may find the apparatus limited.

Specifications

Title	Anatol / Anatols Groenwahn (German Edition)
Author	Arthur Schnitzler
Composition dates	Anatol 1888-1891; Groenwahn 1891
First printings	Anatol 1893 (Berlin); Groenwahn first printed in Meisterdramen 1955
First performances	Anatol 03.12.1910 (Vienna, Berlin); Groenwahn 29.03.1932 (Vienna)
Edition notes	Complete reissue with a biography of the author

Our Verdict

This German edition of Anatol and the appended Anatols Groenwahn is recommended for students and readers who want a faithful, context-aware presentation of Schnitzlers early drama. Its compact form and inclusion of composition, printing and premiere details make it good value for theatrical study and classroom use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are both plays presented in German?
Yes, this is a German edition containing the original German texts of Anatol and Anatols Groenwahn.

Does the edition include biographical information?
Yes, the reissue includes a complete new edition with a biography of Arthur Schnitzler.

Is this suitable for theatrical production research?
Yes, the volume records composition dates and premiere performances, useful for production history and academic citation.