This book is intended for readers who are looking for an introduction to the confusing diversity of German literature. The chronological order chosen is best suited for this purpose because, in contrast to topic- or genre-oriented ordering procedures, it shows a genesis and traces the genealogy of German literature. The fact that Goethe's novel Wilhelm Meisters Lehrjahre would most likely have looked completely different without Hans Jakob Christoffel von Grimmelshausen's Simplicissimus can be shown most easily and effectively in the context of a chronologically presented journey through time. And this is only one of many examples, especially in the field of poetry quite a few more could be found. "He who knows how to read holds the key to great deeds, to undreamed-of possibilities," Aldous Huxley once said. This book is intended to open up some of these possibilities for you.