The present study sets out to reformulate problems posed by the socio-historical explanation of literature by regarding them in terms of systems theory. It shows how, under the pressure of emergent 'exclusive individuality', traditional ideas and formulations are reinterpreted and pressed into service to perform new functions. Three works from Goethe's early period - the "Pastorbrief", "Götz" and "Clavigo" - are subjected to thorough analysis and a new reading of them is proposed. It becomes apparent that previous interpretations have themselves adopted the coordinates of Enlightenment and Empfindsamkeit, thus missing the opportunity for socio-historically motivated reinterpretations and denying these works much of their specifically historical thrust.