Physiognomische Reisen

work by Musäus

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 1, 2026

Quick Summary

Physiognomische Reisen (Physiognomical Travels) is a four-volume work by German satirist Johann Karl August Musäus, published between 1778 and 1779. This book is a satire targeting Johann Lavater's theories, which attempted to link a person's facial features (physiognomy) to their character. Despite its satirical nature, the work found many admirers across Europe. Musäus is primarily known for his graceful and subtly ironic retellings of popular folktales.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Johann Karl August Musäus
A second book, Physiognomische Reisen, 4 vol. (1778–79; “Physiognomical Travels”), a satire on Johann Lavater’s work linking physiognomy to character, had many enthusiasts in Europe. His Volksmärchen der Deutschen, 5 vol. (1782–86; “Fairy Tales of the Germans”), because written in a satirical vein, was not considered genuine folklore…
Read More
A second book, Physiognomische Reisen, 4 vol. (1778–79; “Physiognomical Travels”), a satire on Johann Lavater’s work linking physiognomy to character, had many enthusiasts in Europe. His Volksmärchen der Deutschen, 5 vol. (1782–86; “Fairy Tales of the Germans”), because written in a satirical vein, was not considered genuine folklore…
Read More