Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's Italian Journey (published from 1816 to 1817) is Goethe's report on his travels to Italy from 1786 to 1788. Based on his diaries that he took during his long journey, Goethe spends much of the book ruminating on art, history, geography, plants, and the people he encountered on his trip. The book is also a commentary on Goethe's psyche – and the profound psychological crisis Goethe had. The epigraph of Italian Journey by W.H. Auden sums up the book exceptionally well: "Some journeys – Goethe's was one – really are quests. Italian Journey is not only a description of places, persons and things, but also a psychological document of the first importance."
Goethe's Italian Journey received positive reviews upon release and continues to receive positive reviews to this day by critics and layman alike. However, Goethe is not widely read – but still highly respected – outside of Germany. He is no doubt a magnificent writer but very few people actually know about Goethe, his work, and his journeys. Although Italian Journey will never be widely popular and widely read, it is a truly unique (in form and organization) and fascinating book which is truly a bonafide classic.
