The role of rhythm in the works of Arno Holz, Stefan George, and Georg Trakl

Thesis

This thesis examines the central role of rhythm in the works of Arno Holz, Stefan George, and Georg Trakl. It argues that rhythm is both a map and a mirror, and that these poets used the concept to explore the composition of their poetry, its commitments and effects, and to engage productively with the rapidly changing circumstances of their times.

Recently, there has been a surge in scholarship concerning the wider importance of rhythm for a variety of disciplines and its merits as a critical approach. My thesis provides a case study of three seminal German-language poets around 1900 and shows how focussing on a seemingly universal concept like rhythm can result in highly individualised forms of expression. Although the individual poetic projects differ significantly, following the paths of rhythm in each can reveal the poets’ outlooks and obligations towards their craft, and rhythm’s significance in a wider historical and cultural context.

Examining these authors in combination – each vital to the development of different strands of German-language poetry in the decades surrounding the turn of the last century – through the lens of rhythm reveals new connections regarding intentions and interpretations of their works. All three had a shared interest in the conceptual powers of rhythm and how it can shape their poetry. Moreover, my thesis suggests that these approaches to thinking about and using rhythm live on in the poetry of contemporary authors, just as the heightened interest in the concept of rhythm today is comparable to the enthusiasm for it a century ago.

Authors: Dorre, L-J

• DOI: 10.5287/ora-mnzkznd9d
• Type of award: DPhil
• Level of award: Doctoral
• Awarding institution: University of Oxford
• Language: English
• Keywords: turn of the century; german poetry; rhythm; poetry; metre
• Subjects: Poetry; Rhythm in literature; Literature