First comprehensive study in English of Germany's most prominent female author.Annette von Droste-Hülshoff (1798-1848) remains Germany's foremost female author. Perhaps best known for her novella Die Judenbuche and her ballads, Droste's narrative ability in prose or verse, and her gift for forging highly crafted, often poignant lyrical works, have brought her continuing and growing critical acclaim. Recent critical interest has brought her new recognition as a forerunner in the struggle of women to find their own literary voices.This volume is the first comprehensive study in English of Droste's works and authorial career. It combines a broad view of her literary and epistolary writings with close readings of individual works.