Michael Kolhaas

Although written in the early 19th century, “Michael Kolhaas” is set in the 16th century, contemporary with the infamous Weinsberg massacre and peasants’ revolt that occurred during the era. Despite the moral foundation of the revolt led by the German peasants and by Michael Kolhaas, each represents a detachment from the initial objective and a shift toward surrendering restraint and acting on frustration and anger. In my opinion, “Michael Kolhaas” offers a sympathetic view of the horse dealer’s ordeal and rather than condoning it, depicts the consequences of rash action. Throughout the plot of the story, the injustices that Kolhaas suffers are quite apparent; for example, he is forced to leave his two black horses as collateral before crossing the border and has them returned only to discover that they have become weak and unhealthy from completing field work for the Junker von Tronka. Kolhaas is not bitter at first, with his “sense of justice […] still waver[ing]” and does not immediately jump to conclusions before hearing both sides of the story (120). Furthermore, Kolhaas is understanding of the “imperfection inherent in the order of the world,” and accepts this apparent wrongdoing; his primary motive for seeking justice is a pure one: he sought “protection for his fellow citizens against such wrongs in the future” (121). The inclusion of this purpose evokes sympathy and prevents the reader from assuming a selfish objective. Finally, he attempts to take legal action against the Junkers, but nepotism overcomes his righteous intentions when the Junker’s relatives’ higher authority hinders his efforts. The German peasants in the 16th century attempted similar legal action with their “Twelve Articles”; however, when the German nobles refused the document, the peasants retaliated by impaling as many nobles as possible. Kolhaas similarly seeks revenge by burning down many towns; in both cases, the noble motives that had initiated the cause are tarnished by the petty attempts at revenge. Both the German peasants and Michael Kolhaas suffer the consequences when higher authorities retaliate with force and end their lives.