Ο Frederick Augustus Wolff (Friedrich August Wolf, 1759-1824) was a German classicist, known as the founder of modern literature. He was born on 15 February 1759 in Hainrode, Germany. From an early age he showed an interest in classical studies and despite financial difficulties, he managed to study at the University of Göttingen.

In 1777, at the age of 18, he published his first work, showing his intelligence and passion for classical literature. In 1783 he was appointed professor at the University of Halle, where he taught for many years, profoundly influencing the development of classical studies. His most important work, the Prolegomena ad Homerum, published in 1795, laid the foundations for the scientific study of the Homeric epics, introducing the idea that these works were the result of a collective creation and not of a single poet.

Wolff was a friend of Goethe and Humboldt. Regarding his relationship with Freemasonry he was a member of the Zum Goldenen Zirkel lodge in Goettingen and Zu den Dri Degen in Halle.

He died on 8 August 1824 in Vienna.