Holderlin and Hegel (1797 – 1800)

Abstract

The bravado of Hegel’s Kantianism in “On the Positivity of the Christian Religion” concealed his true state of mind during his last year in Switzerland. After three lonely years of isolation from his friends, Hegel, now twenty-six years old, was deeply depressed, aware that as yet he had achieved nothing of consequence.¹ The Canton of Bern, which, although boasting a republican form of government, was in fact ruled by a small oligarchy, also grated on his nerves.² His energies flagging, Hegel turned in desperation to Hölderlin and Schelling and asked them to seek employment in his behalf.³