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The Sorrows of Young Werther · Chapter

Endnotes explained

A brief editorial note from the fictional publisher, explaining the decision to change place names and suppress a passage from one of Werther's letters to avoid causing offense, while assuring certain unnamed authors of Charlotte's esteem.

What happens

A brief editorial note from the fictional publisher, explaining the decision to change place names and suppress a passage from one of Werther's letters to avoid causing offense, while assuring certain unnamed authors of Charlotte's esteem.

Characters to notice

  • Charlotte

    Her implied literary judgment and approbation are referenced by the editor, though she does not appear directly.

  • Werther

    The editor references a passage from one of his letters that has been suppressed.

Key passages

  • “We have found it necessary to change the names given in the original.”

    The editor states that place names have been altered.

    Highlights the fictional editor's role in shaping the narrative for publication.

  • “We feel obliged to suppress the passage in the letter, to prevent anyone from feeling aggrieved...”

    A part of a letter is omitted to avoid causing personal offense.

    Shows editorial censorship motivated by social propriety.

  • “Though the names are omitted, yet the authors mentioned deserve Charlotte’s approbation...”

    Unnamed authors should know Charlotte approved of them.

    Reinforces Charlotte's character as a discerning reader and the editor's role as an intermediary.

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The Sorrows of Young Werther — Endnotes Explained