Johann Goethe of Germany (1749-1832), a many sided genius, has been acknowledged as a world figure. His writings opened up the literary treasure for all who are interested in the common good of humanity. West-östlicher Divan (Divan of East and West) is his outstanding contribution to unite the West with the East.
He was a natural philosopher, and the first statesmen of Europe who fought with undaunted courage against all sorts of slanderous attacks on the noble soul of the Prophet of Islam.
Goethe never ceased to praise the Prophet Muhammad as the founder of the finest culture, and believed him to be the most truthful Prophet.
In one of his best poems, he has compared the life of the Noble Prophet, with an eternal mighty stream flowing continuously, bestowing love and mercy on the whole of mankind.
Goethe, in Wilhelm Meister’s Travels, pointed out that the Noble Prophet Muhammad, as the hero of humanity, came to the world to protect the people from the axis of evil. Thomas Carlyle has referred to this passage in his book On Heroes, Hero-Worship, and the Heroic in History.
P.S. Read more to know about the great non muslims who have praised Islam and Prophet Muhammad.