Wunderhorn

Wunderhorn refers to a collection of German folk poems and songs. The most famous compilation is Des Knaben Wunderhorn, meaning "The Boy's Magic Horn," published in two volumes in 1805 and 1808 by Achim von Arnim and Clemens Brentano. This anthology drew from a vast array of sources, including oral traditions, chapbooks, and earlier literary works. The poems and songs within the Wunderhorn cover a wide range of themes, from love and nature to historical events, fairy tales, and everyday life.

The collection quickly gained popularity and significantly influenced German Romanticism. Composers like Gustav Mahler, who set many of the poems to music in his song cycles, found inspiration in its lyrical beauty and thematic depth. The Wunderhorn became a touchstone for German national identity and a vital part of its cultural heritage. Its accessibility and evocative language contributed to its enduring appeal, making it a beloved part of German literature and music. The term "Wunderhorn" itself has come to symbolize this rich tradition of folk poetry and song.