Although this was one of Goethe's earliest works, it is quite possibly his greatest. It allows the reader to experience the ups and downs of the irrational main character as he falls blindly and passionately in love with a married woman. Werther is the most passionate character ever created in literature, becoming possessed by nature, love, and himself. Although he sees his own destruction coming, he can and will do nothing to stop it. The first book is mostly autobiographical, based on Goethe's love for Charlotte Buff. Book two is a mor ebiographical account of one of Goethe's acquaintances. The story is truly captivating and emotionally draining. The language, in the English and even more so in the German, is powerful and fits perfectly to the overall mood of the story. There is beautiful imagery and the role of nature is carefully portrayed. This book should be read by all.