G. E. Lessing

Gotthold Ephraim Lessing (1729–1781) was a German writer, dramatist, and publicist of the Enlightenment. He was born in Kamenz and died in Brunswick. After studying theology, philosophy, and medicine in Leipzig and Wittenberg, he worked as a playwright, reviewer, and dramaturg; he later became a librarian in Wolfenbüttel. His best-known dramas include “Minna von Barnhelm,” “Emilia Galotti,” and “Nathan the Wise.” He also wrote works on literary theory and criticism, as well as fables and epigrams. His writing significantly influenced the development of German theatre and repeatedly addressed the idea of religious tolerance.