Hermann and Dorothea

"Hermann and Dorothea" by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe is a narrative poem that mixes romance and social trouble around Hermann and Dorothea. It takes place during the French Revolution and looks at love, duty, and how politics affects people's lives. The story starts with townspeople watching exiles running away from their homes. They talk about how the people are suffering, like a girl whose fiancé was killed. Hermann, a young man who wants to help, and Dorothea, an exile who is strong even though she is suffering, are also there. The characters care about each other, and Hermann helps the refugees, which makes him and Dorothea become closer. This beginning sets up an interesting story that connects personal feelings with the struggles of many people, drawing readers into a detailed world.