Franz Grillparzer was not a man of extravagance either in phrase or conduct. His life as an individual and artist is marked by a reticence, an aversion to the unveiling of the inner SOul,1 that is perhaps best matched by the concise style and expression of his works. This art of effective restraint is particularly visible in the dramas where often a single word or indeed an utter silence carries the greatest emotional impact. There is an absolute lack of sound and fury signifying nothing; even in the frenzy of inspiration 2 Grillparzer carefully chooses words that best convey his thoughts and...