He is reported to be much dissatisfied with
the theatrical filibustering of Goethe and Lenz, especially with the
remarks on the drama in which so little respect is shown for his
Aristotle, and the Leipzig folks are said to be greatly rejoiced at
getting such an ally."
[156] To his brother Karl, 20th April, 1774.
[157] To the same, 20th March, 1777.
[158] To the same, 2d February, 1774.
[159] Gervinus, IV. 62.
[160] It should be considered, by those sagacious persons who think
that the most marvellous intellect of which we have any record could
not master so much Latin and Greek as would serve a sophomore, that
Shakespeare must through conversation have possessed himself of
whatever principles of art Ben Jonson and the other university men
had been able to deduce from their study of the classics. That they
should not have discussed these matters over their sack at the
Mermaid is incredible; that Shakespeare, who left not a drop in any
orange he squeezed, could not also have got all the juice out of this
one, is even more so.
[161] In "Minna" and "Emilia" Lessing followed the lead of Diderot.
In the Preface to the second edition of Diderot's _Theatre_, he says:
"I am very conscious that my taste, without Diderot's example and
teaching, would have taken quite another direction.
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