Heinrich Mann
Heinrich Mann was a German novelist and essayist known for his social criticism and opposition to authoritarianism. Born on March 27, 1871, in Lübeck, Germany, he was the elder brother of the famous novelist Thomas Mann. Heinrich Mann's works often explored the societal impacts of power and corruption. His notable novels include 'Der Untertan' (The Loyal Subject) and 'Professor Unrat' (Small Town Tyrant), which was adapted into the film 'The Blue Angel'. He lived in exile during the Nazi regime due to his outspoken views and passed away on March 11, 1950, in Santa Monica, California.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
-
1. Professor Unrat
The novel is a social critique of bourgeois society in Germany during the Wilhelmine period, as seen through the life of an authoritarian and morally rigid school teacher. The protagonist becomes infatuated with a cabaret dancer, leading him to abandon his duties and societal norms, and eventually descend into madness. The book explores themes of obsession, social class, and the destructive power of repressed desire.
-
2. The Loyal Subject
"The Loyal Subject" is a satirical novel set in Germany during the reign of Kaiser Wilhelm II. It follows the life of a petty bureaucrat who is obsessively devoted to the Kaiser and the state, despite the fact that his loyalty is constantly abused. His blind obedience and the absurdity of the system are used to critique the militarism and authoritarianism of the period. The story is a powerful indictment of the dangers of unchecked nationalism and the dehumanization that can result from excessive obedience to authority.
