Suffering, Redemption, and the Infinite: The Poetry of Rainer Maria Rilke

This course undertakes a close reading of Rainer Maria Rilke's masterwork, the "Duino Elegies," investigating its intricate themes, lyrical beauty, and enduring significance for world poetry.

Our study entails an exploration of Rilke's unique poetic vision and his departure from traditional poetic forms and conventions. As we traverse the elegies, we grant special attention to Rilke's contemplations on the nature of human existence, the tension between the physical and spiritual worlds, and his reflections on love, death, and transformation. We also look at his multilayered symbolism and metaphors, which serve as windows into his complex interior world.

Some readers believe that Rilke presents love as a redemptive force, a bridge between the terrestrial and the eternal. In contrast, others believe he portrays love as a source of existential anguish, emphasizing the solitude and alienation inherent in human relationships. This difference in interpretation speaks to Rilke's broader reflections on human connectivity and the nature of existence, and will serve as another focal point of our seminar discussions.

All our courses maintain an atmosphere of respectful communication. Through close readings and lively seminar discussions, we will investigate, ponder, and immerse ourselves in the haunting beauty of Rilke's poetic expressions. The goal is to ensure that every participant, regardless of their familiarity with Rilke, attains a deeper and more nuanced appreciation of his monumental composition.