Aufgeklärter Stilwandel in Prag: Karl Heinrich Seibts Abhandlung über die Unterschiede der „Schreibarten“ (1768)

Abstract

This article discusses an essay by Karl Heinrich Seibt on differences in writing styles. The essay was published in Prague in 1768. It reflects important changes in writing practices that occurred in the Age of Enlightenment. Seibt’s essay is interesting because it recommends the usage of very progressive writing styles that come close to early Romantic approaches (the ‘Sturm und Drang’). On the other hand, Seibt also defends a very traditional (periodical) style in official or formal contexts. It is argued that this sharp contrast is a consequence of Seibt’s difficult role as a teacher of modern language style in the traditional Habsburg Empire.