Humorous Readings and Recitations, in Prose and Verse

Heinrich Leopold Wagner was a German dramatist born on 19 February 1747 in Strasbourg to unknown parents, though little is recorded about his family background. He became known for his tragedy The Child Murderess, published in 1776, which explored intense emotional and moral struggles within society. His work aligned with the Sturm und Drang movement, reflecting themes of rebellion and personal turmoil. Wagner s career, though brief, included plays and writings that captured the turbulent spirit of his time. He died at the young age of 32 on 4 March 1779 in Frankfurt. Separately, Leopold Wagner, often confused with Heinrich due to the shared surname, was a British author born in 1858 who became known for his diverse works on the meaning of names, urban history, humor, and advice for young writers. Some of his notable publications include Significance of Names (1893), Humorous Readings and Recitations in Prose and Verse (1888), A New Book about London (1921), London Inns and Taverns (1924), and Modern Political Orations (1896). He also authored Names and Their Meaning (1891) and practical guides like How to Get on the Stage and How to Succeed There (1899).