ABSTRACT
In recognizing Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's lyrics as klassisch, it remains to examine the characteristics that distinguish a 'classical' literature in relation to the German scene. Goethe's employment of traditional forms is characteristic of his 'classical' attitude, for it reflects his sense of belonging in society. Goethe felt that the chief benefit of the Italienische Reise was that he had finally freed himself from the merely subjective, from spiritual imprecision, and that he had achieved a clear insight into the norms of beauty. Music led Franz Schubert to recognize his place in society, and art was a means by which he assured himself of his spiritual and moral liberty. Schubert's first working paints Goethe's scene in musical tones and his impressionistic setting matches the lyrical and dramatic elements of Goethe's song. However, Goethe's autobiography does not place 'Der Musensohn' in an exact time frame, but pertains to the poet's early disposition and experience.
