Klinger, Friedrich Maximilian von (1752–1831)

German playwright and poet. His drama Sturm und Drang 1776 gave its name to that movement in German literature which exalted passionate feelings, the power of the individual will, and the democratic ideals of freedom and equality. Another drama of his, Die Zwillinge 1775, is also celebrated. In later life he wrote several philosophical novels.

Klinger was born in Frankfurt-am-Main. He became an ardent disciple of Goethe. From 1780 to 1830 he was employed in Russia, where he was ennobled and made a lieutenant general.