The Conqueror by Friedrich Schiller
"The Conqueror" is a poem by Friedrich Schiller, first published in 1777, that critiques the tyranny and ambitions of despotic rulers. The poem features a malevolent conqueror who devastates lands with violence, and after his death, faces judgment before God. In a moment of arrogance, the conqueror weighs his deeds against their consequences, but ultimately, a curse invoked by the poet tips the scales against him, leading to his damnation. This work reflects Schiller's deep-seated disdain for oppressive leaders, particularly aimed at the duke of Württemberg. Throughout his career, Schiller evolved as a poet, transitioning from passionate and emotive expressions to a more classical style characterized by simplicity and clarity. His poetry often engages with philosophical inquiries about goodness, beauty, and truth, reflecting his belief in humanity and hope for a better future. "The Conqueror" serves as an early example of Schiller's revolutionary spirit and his enduring commitment to exploring moral themes through his art.
The Conqueror by Friedrich Schiller
Excerpted from an article in Magill’s Survey of World Literature, Revised Edition
First published: “Der Eroberer,” 1777 (collected in The Poems of Schiller, 1851)
Type of work: Poems
The Work
Schiller’s first important poem, “The Conqueror,” was first published in 1777 in Schwäbischers Magazin. The poet was energetic and full of revolutionary ardor. He takes aim at despots and their ruthless ambitions. His protagonist is an evil conqueror who has devastated the land with a sword dipped in blood. The warrior dies and ascends to Heaven, where he is judged before God. With arrogance, he sits on the scales of justice, and his deeds are piled opposite him. They balance evenly until the poet invokes a curse that tips the scales, sending the conqueror to Hell. “The Conqueror” is an attack on the despised duke of Württemberg. Schiller soon learned to sublimate his fury.
Schiller’s poetry usually coalesced around a central tenet or idea. His aim was to appeal to the ear and the mind. Like the ancient Greek thinkers whom he admired, Schiller posed philosophical questions in his poetry about what is good, beautiful, and true in life and proceeded to answer them. The poet believed fully in humanity and anticipated a better future. Schiller grew as a poet, and his style changed from passionate and lyrical exultations to a classical mastery of simplicity and clarity.
Bibliography
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