On the German novella The Jewish Beech Tree

1842, Annette von Delhorst-Schulhof published the novella "The Jewish Beech Tree". Formally, it is a crime novel: the hero Friedrich is a poor farmer who is implicated in a murder case. He killed Aaron, a Jew, under a beech tree, fled to a foreign land and worked hard in Turkey for twenty years. Finally, he was released home, but he was always uneasy about his sins. He always wants to avoid this beech tree, but he is always attracted by it. Finally, he hanged himself under the tree. With the help of this story, the author realistically depicts a mountainous Westphalia genre painting (which is the subtitle of this novel), reflecting the living conditions of the countryside and farmers at that time.

Annette von Delhorst Schulhof is the first important poetess in the history of German literature. Born in a noble family, she was influenced by conservative Catholic traditions and lived a quiet and secluded life. 1838, she published her first book of poetry, which did not arouse repercussions. 1844, the publication of her poetry collection "The Last Gift" won her a reputation and became a famous lyric poetess. Her poems are delicate in feeling and depict the natural scenery of her hometown with the unique gentleness of women. She uses modeling language to express trivial things, sounds and colors, ignoring the rules of rhythm and poetry, but focusing on a unique rhythm and trembling power in her heart.