Heinrich von Kleist was born in Frankfurt an der Oder, Prussia. He came from a military family and briefly served in the army, but soon pursued a literary career. His life was marked by financial difficulties, existential crises, and failed attempts to find stability. Despite a short literary career that was little recognized during his lifetime, his work gained great posthumous prominence. Kleist revolutionized German drama with his psychological depth and innovative themes. He also wrote short stories and novels that explore the nature of perception and morality. His work profoundly influenced later theater and literature. Kleist died in 1811, under tragic circumstances.