Dreamers: When the Writers Took Power, Germany 1918

During the First World War, a revolution led by journalist and theatre critic Kurt Eisner overthrew the German monarchy and declared a Free State of Bavaria. Writers, poets, playwrights, and intellectuals played a significant role in the revolution, including Eisner, Thomas Mann, Rainer Maria Rilke, and many others. Volker Weidermann's book presents a slice of history from November 1918 to April 1919, showing how a small group of people could have altered the course of the twentieth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 07 November 2019
Publisher: Pushkin Press

In the aftermath of the First World War, a transformative movement emerged in Germany led by the journalist and theatre critic Kurt Eisner. With a vision of establishing a Free State of Bavaria, Eisner organized a revolution that aimed to overthrow the monarchy and usher in a new era of democracy. However, his dream was tragically cut short when he was assassinated in February 1919. Despite the failure of the revolution, the spirit of change that Eisner ignited continued to inspire writers, poets, playwrights, and intellectuals throughout Germany. Among the prominent figures who played significant roles in this cultural movement were Thomas Mann, Rainer Maria Rilke, and many others. In his captivating prose, Volker Weidermann delves into a historical period spanning November 1918 to April 1919, showcasing how a small group of individuals possessed the power to shape the course of the twentieth century.

The aftermath of the First World War brought about significant political and social upheaval in Germany. The monarchy, which had ruled the country for centuries, was overthrown, and a new democratic government was established. This period was marked by a surge of political activism and cultural expression, with artists and intellectuals taking center stage in shaping the nation's future.

One of the most prominent figures in this movement was Kurt Eisner, a journalist and theatre critic who played a crucial role in organizing the revolution that led to the establishment of the Free State of Bavaria. Eisner was a passionate advocate for democracy and social justice, and his writings and speeches inspired many people to join the cause of change.

Despite the assassination of Eisner in February 1919, the revolution he had initiated continued to gather momentum. Writers, poets, playwrights, and intellectuals across Germany began to express their ideas and opinions through their art, using literature, poetry, and theatre to challenge the status quo and promote a new vision for the country.

One of the most significant figures in this cultural movement was Thomas Mann, a renowned German writer who is considered one of the greatest authors of the twentieth century. Mann's works, such as "The Magic Mountain" and "Death in Venice," explored the themes of individuality, morality, and the human condition, and they resonated with readers and critics alike.

Another important figure was Rainer Maria Rilke, a poet and writer who is known for his innovative use of language and his deep exploration of the human soul. Rilke's works, such as "Duino Elegies" and "Letters to a Young Poet," were widely read and admired, and they helped to establish German literature as a major force in the world.

In addition to these prominent figures, many other writers, poets, playwrights.

Weight: 212g
Dimension: 195 x 125 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782275060