Bernhard Sorg describes in his introduction the distinctive orientation of romantic and naturalistic poetry, particularly in its unique perspectives on nature, nation and politics, religion and technology, gender roles, and the frequently encountered parodies. Individual chapters illuminate the works of such diverse poets as Heinrich Heine, Annette von Droste-Hülshoff, Eduard Mörike, Theodor Storm, Gottfried Keller, Conrad Ferdinand Meyer, and Wilhelm Busch through engaging interpretations.