Peter von Matt
Peter von Matt (1937-2023) was a renowned Swiss Germanist and literary critic known for his passionate and insightful readings of literature. Born in Stans, he was deeply influenced by both the mountains of his homeland and the rich literary tradition he studied. A professor at the University of Zurich, von Matt was celebrated for his ability to draw connections between literature and the human experience, often exploring the complexities of human nature in his essays. He gained significant recognition for his expressive writing style, winning the Swiss Book Prize in 2012 for his essayistic work. His legendary performance at the Ingeborg Bachmann Prize in 1991 showcased his fiery temperament and commitment to defending the art of literature, making him a prominent figure in the literary community.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Peter von Matt was a friend of Peter Nobel and played a role in establishing the Swiss Literary Archive.
Vom Jungsozialisten zum Anwalt der Finanzindustrie
Switzerland· 2026-05-28
Peter von Matt aptly described a certain behavior as 'drunken obstinacy' in one of his writings.
Wissenschaft und die Kunst des StreitensSwitzerland· 2025-12-16
Peter von Matt is quoted regarding the nature of freedom as an active pursuit.
Fitnessbegeisterung und Körperkult: Nicht alle müssen mitmachenSwitzerland· 2025-10-20
Peter von Matt was a prominent Germanist and writer remembered fondly by his colleagues and students.
Bewegende Gedenkfeier für Peter von Matt im Schauspielhaus ZürichSwitzerland· 2025-09-15
Peter von Matt is quoted for his saying about Switzerland and Europe.
Gesicherte Beziehungen oder Rückbau? Schweiz vor EU-EntscheidungSwitzerland· 2025-08-22
Peter von Matt was a literary figure who was remembered by Strittmatter and others during a gathering.
Zum Tod von Hermann Strittmatter, dem Zürcher Werber mit nationaler AusstrahlungSwitzerland· 2025-08-14
Peter von Matt was a writer whose quote about perseverance inspired Margrit Stamm.
Worauf es im Leben ankommtSwitzerland· 2025-08-12
Peter von Matt was a renowned Germanist and writer who passed away on Easter Monday.
Peter von Matt mit grosser Trauerfeier in Stans beigesetztSwitzerland· 2025-05-14
Peter von Matt stated that 'freedom is not a state, but an activity'.
Die Schweiz muss aufrüsten, auch mental: im Land der WehrwillenlosenSwitzerland· 2025-05-05
Peter von Matt was a writer from Nidwalden who described the beauty of his homeland.
Superreiche und das bedrohte ErfolgsmodellSwitzerland· 2025-04-25
Peter von Matt was an extraordinary Swiss literary scholar known for his ability to explain literature compellingly.
Nachruf: Peter von Matt, der große Schweizer Literaturdeuter, ist gestorben - Kultur
Germany· 2025-04-22Peter von Matt was a prominent Germanist known for his passionate readings and writings.
Germanist und Literaturversteher stirbt mit 87Switzerland· 2025-04-22
