The Old Man of the Mountain, The Lovecharm and Pietro of Abano Tales from the German of Tieck   By: Ludwig Tieck (1773-1853)

"The Old Man of the Mountain, The Lovecharm, and Pietro of Abano: Tales from the German of Tieck" by Ludwig Tieck is a collection of three captivating stories that delve into themes of love, magic, and the human psyche.

In "The Old Man of the Mountain," Tieck masterfully weaves together elements of fantasy and mystery to create a gripping narrative. The story follows a young man named Frederic who stumbles upon a secluded mountain with an enigmatic figure living at its peak. As Frederic becomes entangled with the old man's secrets, he becomes consumed by a sense of dread and intrigue. Tieck's vivid descriptions paint a haunting picture of the mountain's eerie atmosphere, immersing readers in a world where nothing is as it seems. The tale is filled with unexpected twists and turns, making it a true page-turner until the very end.

"The Lovecharm" takes a different approach, focusing on the power of love and its ability to transform lives. Tieck introduces us to two young lovers, Matilda and Ferdinand, who find themselves caught in a web of misunderstanding and deception. Through the use of a magical lovecharm, Tieck explores the complexities of human emotions and the lengths people will go to in pursuit of love. The story is infused with a whimsical and dream-like quality, reminding readers of the unpredictable nature of romance and the transformative power it holds over individuals.

Lastly, "Pietro of Abano" delves into the realm of the supernatural and the exploration of the human psyche. Set in the 16th century, the story follows the eponymous character as he delves into the world of alchemy, black magic, and forbidden knowledge. Tieck's attention to detail and his ability to create a vivid historical setting bring the story to life, immersing readers in a world of mysticism and occultism. As Pietro's relentless pursuit of forbidden knowledge leads him down a dark and dangerous path, Tieck delves into the complex themes of guilt, morality, and the destructive consequences of unchecked ambition.

Overall, "The Old Man of the Mountain, The Lovecharm, and Pietro of Abano: Tales from the German of Tieck" showcases Ludwig Tieck's exceptional storytelling abilities. With each story, Tieck masterfully combines elements of fantasy, romance, and the supernatural to craft engaging narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level. Fans of gothic literature and German Romanticism will find themselves enchanted by Tieck's imaginative tales, as they navigate the depths of human nature and the boundaries of reality.

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The name of Herr Balthasar was well known throughout the whole hill country: not a child but had heard of his vast riches, and had some story to tell of him. Everybody too loved and honoured him; for his bounty was as great as his wealth: but at the same time he was viewed with fear; for he harast both himself and others by a number of strange whims which no one could understand; and his moodiness, his silent reserve, were especially irksome to those who were nearest about him. No person had seen him smile for many years; he scarcely ever came out of his large house on the hill above the little mountain town, nearly the whole of which belonged to him: its inhabitants too were almost all his dependents, whom he had drawn thither to work in his manufactories, his mines, and his alum pits. Thus through his means this small spot was very thickly peopled, and enlivened by the greatest activity. Waggons and horses were continually moving to and fro; and the clatter of the working machinery was mixt up with the roar of waters, and with the various noises from the pounding and smelting houses... Continue reading book >>