Sartor Resartus · Chapter
I: Genesis explained
The chapter introduces the obscure origins of Diogenes Teufelsdröckh, who was mysteriously delivered as an infant to Andreas and Gretchen Futteral in the village of Entepfuhl.
What happens
The chapter introduces the obscure origins of Diogenes Teufelsdröckh, who was mysteriously delivered as an infant to Andreas and Gretchen Futteral in the village of Entepfuhl. The Editor struggles to piece together Teufelsdröckh's genealogy from scattered papers, noting the enigmatic arrival of a stranger who left the child with a green veil and the name Diogenes Teufelsdröckh. The chapter reflects on the significance of names and beginnings, as the infant Gneschen begins his journey of growth and discovery.
Themes in this chapter
Clothing as Symbol
The green veil and the name 'Teufelsdröckh' are presented as garments or symbols that shape identity; the Editor and Teufelsdröckh himself meditate on names as the 'most important of all Clothings.'
The Nature of Work and Duty
Andreas Futteral's transition from soldier to gardener, and his disciplined life, reflect a Cincinnatus-like dedication to work and duty.
Historical and Social Transformation
The chapter contrasts the fading world of Frederick the Great with the mysterious arrival of a new life, hinting at broader social and historical changes.
Characters to notice
- Diogenes Teufelsdröckh
The infant protagonist, left with the Futterals; his origins are mysterious, and he is noted as a still, thoughtful child who seldom cried.
- Andreas Futteral
A former Prussian grenadier sergeant and regimental schoolmaster, now a gardener; he and his wife Gretchen receive the infant Teufelsdröckh.
- Gretchen Futteral
Andreas's wife, a devoted housemother who cares for the infant and manages the household; she is described as loving her husband for his valor and wisdom.
- Gneschen
The childhood name for Teufelsdröckh; he is raised by the Futterals and begins to develop his senses and speech.
Key passages
“He already felt that time was precious; that he had other work cut out for him than whimpering.”
Even as an infant, he seemed to understand the value of time and that he had more important things to do than cry.
This reflects Teufelsdröckh's early sense of purpose and duty.
“The Name is the earliest Garment you wrap round the earth-visiting Me; to which it thenceforth cleaves, more tenaciously (for there are Names that have lasted nigh thirty centuries) than the very skin.”
A name is the first covering we give to our earthly self, and it clings to us even more persistently than our skin, sometimes lasting for thousands of years.
This illustrates the theme of clothing as symbol, emphasizing the power of names.
“Call one Diogenes Teufelsdröckh, and he will open the Philosophy of Clothes?”
If you name someone Diogenes Teufelsdröckh, might he not naturally go on to develop a philosophy of clothing?
This suggests a deterministic link between a person's name and their destiny or life's work.