The Vormärz Epoche (1815-1848) represents a significant period of political and literary awakening in German history, characterized by growing opposition to aristocratic rule and demands for democratic reforms.
Key aspects include:
- Strong focus on political and social criticism in literature
- Rise of revolutionary ideas and democratic movements
- Emergence of influential writers like Heinrich Heine and Georg Büchner
- Development of politically engaged poetry and prose
- Strict censorship and government suppression of liberal ideas
- Culmination in the March Revolution of 1848/49
- Opposition to the restoration policies of Metternich
- Growing tension between conservative forces and liberal reformers