Final answer:
In the early 19th century, German culture was characterized by a focus on Nordic mythology and heritage, as part of nationalistic efforts to forge a unified German identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic of German culture in the early 19th century that is being referred to is a focus on Nordic mythology and heritage. At this time, there was a strong nationalist movement within the burgeoning German state. Cultural unity played a significant role as Germany moved toward political unification, and this included a revival and celebration of traditional Germanic myths, folklore, and history which were seen as the foundation of the German identity. This nationalistic focus was part of a broader European trend during the 19th century, where many nations sought to solidify their cultural identities in the forming of nation-states. While there was certainly a regard for Greek cultural institutions, the Greek influence on German culture was more pronounced during the Roman era, and while the inheritance of Roman and Greek culture was significant historically, it did not define German cultural characteristics in the 19th century to the same extent as the focus on its Germanic roots.