The relationship between landscape and literature is a multifaceted and historically deep-rooted topic that goes far beyond the mere description of natural surroundings. Landscape can be understood as a construct and a visual conception that is shaped by cultural and historical contexts. The standard reconstruction of the genesis of the concept of landscape shows how the perception of landscape has changed over the centuries—from a mere backdrop to a meaningful expression of subjectivity and human experience. Accordingly, this article examines the changing representations of landscapes in literary texts and their significance for literary creation. It becomes clear that the depiction of landscapes in literature not only fulfills visual functions, but also provides insights into the cultural and social contexts as well as the understanding of nature within the respective eras.