Since its first publication in 1996, this introduction has been exceptionally well received by educators and students. The author provides a comprehensive introduction to the literature of the German Enlightenment. After an overview of the historical, philosophical, social, and intellectual foundations of the period, he presents the essential poetic genres, the most significant authors, and their major works. The focus of the study is on the period between 1730 and 1780. However, analyses of the literary development processes during the transition from the early modern period to the 18th century, as well as insights into the late phase of the German Enlightenment, are also offered. For the third edition, the volume has been reviewed and partially updated. Selling points: Comprehensive overview of trends, authors, and works of the Enlightenment (1730-1780). Authors such as G.