This pioneering work on poetic realism in Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Germany and Switzerland studies the genesis and history of highly significant international literary movement which has remained outside the literary mainstream.Beginning with the 'father' of poetic realism, Poul Muller (1794-1838) and ending with the novels of the German writer Theodor Fontane (1819-98), Professor Bernd considers virtually all the significant writers of poetic realism, showing how each throws light on others and revealing previously overlooked connections and affinities. He argues that the masterpieces of 'poetic realism' should be seen in the context of common inter-European history rather thanas representatives of individual national literature; this approach allows him to trace similar themes and traits in authors working in different countries and languages - not readily apparent when considered in isolation. Major figures treated include Sten Blicher, Thomasine Gyllembourg, Johan Ludvig Runeberg, Gottfried Keller, C.F. Meyer, Otto Ludwig, Theodor Fontane, Wilhelm Raabe and Klaus Groth. PROFESSOR BERND teaches at the German Departmentat the University of Heidelberg.