Peace-loving Germany and peace-rejoicing Germany

Johann Rist's "Germany Desiring Peace and Germany Rejoicing in Peace" is a literary double work brimming with baroque drama, profound pathos, and political symbolism. Amidst the devastation of the Thirty Years' War, Rist raises his voice—not as a chronicler of violence, but as a poet of hope.

In the first part, "Germany Desiring Peace ," we encounter an allegorical "Germany" that is gravely wounded, torn apart, and desperately cries out for peace. Mars, Death, Famine, and Plague move across the stage as somber figures, while the nation pleads for salvation.

The second part, "Germany Rejoicing in Peace ," presents a hopeful counterpoint: Here, peace, justice, and divine order triumph. In festive tones, the work celebrates the longed-for tranquility after decades of destruction.

With its poetic power, allegorical depth and musical interludes, this work is more than a historical curiosity – it is a passionate plea for peace and a literary monument of baroque culture in politically turbulent times.

This book about peace-loving Germany and peace-exulting Germany contains two plays (Singspiele) and is an unaltered, high-quality reprint of the original 1864 edition.