Comedy by Gotthold Ephraim Lessing

Minna von Barnhelm and Major Tellheim fall in love and become engaged during the Seven Years' War. She is the niece of a Saxon count; he also enjoys recognition and prosperity as a Prussian major. After the end of the war, the two lovers should finally find each other. However, that seems easier said than done. Tellheim is accused of corruption - so he not only returns wounded and disgraced, but also becomes increasingly impoverished despite times of peace. Meanwhile, Minna and her servant Franciska have set out to find the fiancé. As luck would have it, they stop at the same inn where Tellheim was also staying. When he and Minna finally meet after some confusion, she cannot convince him that she still loves him - regardless of whether he is rich or poor, injured or unharmed - and that they can finally get married. Tellheim's pride and his appreciation of Minna prevent him from feeling worthy of her, and so Minna has to be creative in order to achieve her happiness.

Minna von Barnhelm or the Soldier's Happiness sparkles with humor, irony and wit. The comedy, which premiered in 1767, also raises very existential questions. Lessing does a great job of allowing us to ask ourselves these questions and yet give in to the cathartic humor.