Ernst Jünger's The Forest Passage is a collection of essays examining the power of the forest in German culture and literature. The first essay in the collection, “The Noble Woods,” examines the woods in German literature and its cultural significance in German society throughout history. The essay argues that the woods have represented a “place of refuge,” from the outside world, and has served as a source of inspiration and a source of strength.
The second essay in the collection, “The God of the Woods,” focuses on the myth of the mythic deity, Odin, who is the god of the woods in German mythology. Jünger examines the importance of Odin in German literature and culture, and discusses why Odin has such a prominent role in German mythology. He then proceeds to show how pagan beliefs about Odin evolved and became popular in modern Germany.
The third essay in the collection, “The Silence of the Woods,” explores the mystical power of silence in the woods and its cultural significance. Jünger discusses how German writers have used silence to emphasize the connection between man and nature, and how the forest has become a refuge for those looking for solace. He also expounds upon the notion of a beauty of silence and the importance of silence in literature.
The fourth essay, “The Criminal Woods,” takes a different angle. In this essay Jünger considers the dark side of the woods, introducing readers to criminals who have committed crimes in the wooded areas of Germany. He also examines how individuals and society in general have reacted to these criminals, as well as how the presence of criminals in the woods has impacted the perception of the woods and their spiritual value.
The fifth essay, “The Magic of the Woods,” again turns towards the mysticism of the woods in German culture. Jünger attempts to explain how the enchantment of these places has led to the belief in superstitions and magical phenomena, as well as a general feeling of apathy and depression. He also delves into the history of the magical beliefs of German peoples and investigates the ways in which these beliefs have shaped German culture.
Finally, in the sixth and last essay, “The Power of the Woods,” Jünger once again examines the theme of the power of the woods in German literature and culture. Here, he looks at the ways in which the forest has served as a source of power and strength throughout German history. He also recounts a number of examples from German literature that demonstrate how the woods have been used as a metaphor in poetry and stories, as well as a vehicle for symbolism and allegory in literature.
Overall, The Forest Passage by Ernst Jünger is a detailed and fascinating look at the importance of the forest in German literature and culture. Using a variety of essays, Jünger delves into the symbolic, cultural, and spiritual value of the woods in German historiography, as well as examining their importance in the arts, superstitions, and the modern day. By exploring these and other topics, Jünger creates a comprehensive work that will appeal to both students of German culture and those interested in nature, literature, and the power of the woods.
