Meaning: This quote by Karl Schlegel touches upon the concept of national character and its relationship to criticism and history. Schlegel was a German poet, philosopher, and literary critic who played a significant role in the development of German Romanticism. In this quote, he reflects on the perception of the German national character and how it is often a topic of scrutiny and analysis.

The phrase "The German national character is a favorite subject of character experts" suggests that the characteristics and traits attributed to the German people have been a popular point of discussion among scholars and commentators. This is indicative of the enduring interest in understanding the unique cultural and social aspects that define a nation's character. It also implies that there is a certain level of expertise or authority required to delve into such discussions, as the complexities of national character cannot be easily generalized or simplified.

Schlegel's assertion that "the less mature a nation, the more she is an object of criticism and not of history" introduces an intriguing perspective on the relationship between a nation's maturity and the way it is perceived. In this context, maturity may refer to the stage of development and cultural evolution of a nation. Schlegel seems to suggest that nations that are perceived as less mature are more likely to be subjected to criticism rather than being the subject of historical analysis. This raises questions about how historical narratives and interpretations are influenced by perceptions of a nation's maturity and development.

The quote hints at the idea that the characterization of a nation's traits and tendencies is often shaped by external perspectives, particularly those of experts and commentators. This can lead to a situation where a nation's national character becomes a subject of scrutiny and evaluation, often influenced by preconceived notions and biases. Schlegel's use of the term "favorite subject" suggests that the German national character has been a recurring topic of interest, possibly due to its perceived complexity and the diverse perspectives it elicits.

It is worth noting that the quote was written in the context of German history and the broader intellectual climate of the time. During the period in which Schlegel was writing, Germany was undergoing significant social, political, and cultural changes, and there was a growing interest in understanding the essence of the German national character. This interest was fueled by debates about German identity, the impact of historical events, and the cultural and philosophical movements of the time.

In conclusion, Karl Schlegel's quote offers a thought-provoking insight into the complexities of national character and the dynamics of historical analysis and criticism. It highlights the enduring fascination with understanding the unique traits and tendencies that define a nation, while also shedding light on the influence of external perspectives and perceptions. The quote sparks contemplation on the relationship between a nation's maturity, historical scrutiny, and the enduring interest in unraveling the enigma of national character.