Understanding Hermann Hesse
Subtitle: the man, his myth, his metaphor
By: Lewis W. Tusken.
Series: Understanding modern European and Latin American literature
Publisher: University of South Carolina Press; Univ of South Carolina Pr
Published: 1998
Place of publication: Columbia, S.C
Language: eng
Number of pages: 253
Subjects: Hesse, Hermann, 1877-1962 -- Criticism and interpretation.
Description: Written for the new generation of students and general readers now discovering the novelist, Understanding Hermann Hesse unravels the stylistic mysteries that traditionally have complicated interpretation of the noted German writer. Tusken clarifies the web of structural patterns that distinguish the Hesse canon; he also reveals the timelessness of the writer's thematic concerns and the timeliness - given the religious experimentation of the current age - of his spiritual quest.

Making the case that Hesse deserves renewed, more thoughtful attention from critics and scholars, Tusken identifies the themes that tie seemingly disparate novels together. He sheds light on often overlooked nuances of duality motifs and image-metaphor variations that characterize Hesse's progressive thematic continuum. In addition, Tusken focuses on the importance of a biographical approach in understanding this self-proclaimed confessional writer.

Recounting major events in Hesse's life, Tusken appraises their effect on the novelist's search for self and for the meaning of human existence.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 233-242) and index.
Table of contents: title: Biography : beginnings and forebodings; title: Peter Camenzind : an idyll pursued; title: Beneath the wheel : burning memories; title: Gaienhofen and Bern : idylls and realities; title: Rosshalde : an idyll ends; title: World War I : the awakening; title: Demian : rebirth; title: Siddhartha : the vision; title: Der Steppenwolf : immortal reminders; title: Narcissus and Goldmund : the artist creator; title: Journey to the East : the law of service; title: The glass bead game : the game of life; title: Conclusion : the artist's legacy.