Johann Peter Eckermann (1792-1854) was a German poet, author, and scholar best known for his close friendship with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Born in Winsen, Germany, Eckermann studied law before dedicating himself to literature and becoming a devoted admirer of Goethe's work. He first met Goethe in 1823 and quickly became his confidant and collaborator, assisting him in various literary projects and engaging in extensive conversations that would later form the basis of Conversations with Goethe.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749-1832) was a German writer, poet, playwright, and statesman, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Western literature. Born in Frankfurt, Germany, Goethe's literary career spanned more than six decades, during which he produced an extensive body of work that included novels, plays, poetry, scientific treatises, and autobiographical writings. His most famous works include the drama Faust, the novel The Sorrows of Young Werther, and the collection of lyric poems West-östlicher Diwan.