Overview

• Peter von Matt, a celebrated Swiss literary scholar and author, passed away on April 21, 2025, in Zürich at the age of 87 after a prolonged illness.
• Von Matt was known for his accessible yet rigorous approach to literature, blending academic precision with engaging narratives that resonated with diverse audiences.
• He authored several landmark works, including 'Liebesverrat' (1989), 'Verkommene Söhne, missratene Töchter' (1995), and 'Die Intrige' (2006), exploring themes of betrayal, family dynamics, and intrigue in literature.
• A professor at the University of Zurich from 1976 to 2002, von Matt's lectures attracted a wide audience, from students to civic elites, reflecting his ability to bridge academia and public discourse.
• His contributions extended beyond literature to cultural commentary, examining European identity and the Swiss national psyche through his essays and public speaking.