Ludwig Achim von Arnim's adaptation of the medieval saga of the female pope Johanna is typically romantic in the way it combines epic, lyrical, and dramatic elements. This is the first edition of the work to provide an authentic version based on the manuscripts. The work itself caused a considerable stir amongst contemporary authors, with Jacob Grimm even comparing it to Goethe's »Faust«. It is certainly one of the most original and substantial creations by Arnim or any other German romantic writer.