Dictionary.net

An eminent German poet; born at Molmerswende, near Ballenstedt, Anhalt, Dec. 31, 1747, or Jan. 1, 1748; died in Gottingen, June 8, 1794. Shakespeare and Percy's "Reliques of English Ballad Poetry" had a decisive influence in giving direction to his efforts at poetic expression. "Lenore" (1773) established his reputation as a poet, which was sustained by the ballads that followed it: "The Parson's Daughter"; "The Wild Huntsman"; "The Song of the Brave Man"; "Kaiser and Abbot". Specimens of his burlesque ballads are: "The Robber Count"; "The Wives of Weinsberg".