One of the most important projects currently under way in contemporary studies of the early modern period is the research and editorial project on the Fruitful Society (Fruchtbringende Gesellschaft). The Society was founded in Weimar in 1617, and until 1650 it was led from Kothen and continued its formal existence until 1680. As the only German learned society during the 17th century, the Fruitful Society drew on the participation of princes, noblemen, councilors, military leaders, academics, and poets. Together, they formed a leadership class to launch a national German culture that was...