Schiller in Max Weber? An Open Question

The essay examines the alleged connection between Weber’s concept of the “disenchantment of the world” (Entzauberung der Welt) and Schiller’s concept of the “de-godded nature” (entgötterte Natur), a connection that has been contested by recent Weberian historiography. Through a detailed analysis of explicit quotations and references to Schiller in Weber’s works and correspondence, the study reveals Weber’s familiarity with the German poet and suggests that Weber viewed him as an example of a heroic personality.