Nathan the Wise Author:Gotthold Ephraim Lessing Gotthold Ephraim Lessing was a German philosopher, playwright, and art critic. Lessing was one of the most prominent figures of the Enlightenment Era and his writings helped shape the development of modern German literature. Lessing's most famous plays are Nathan the Wise, Emilia Galotti, and Minna von Barnhelm. Nathan the Wise is a historica... more »l play set in Jerusalem during the Third Crusade. The play's major themes are religious tolerance, friendship, and communication.« less