Der Ketzer von Soana

Name: Der Ketzer von Soana
Author: Gerhart Hauptmann

By Gerhart Hauptmann

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

German Literature

About This Book

A narrator describes repeated visits to a solitary, bespectacled herdsman living high on Monte Generoso in Ticino, a man locally dubbed the heretic of Soana. Rumors portray him as bewitched or allied with the devil, but personal encounters reveal a cultivated, reserved figure who tends animals with calm skill, entertains guests warmly on a terrace and in simple stone rooms, and speaks knowledgeably of classical authors, distant lands, and politics. The account unfolds in first person, gradually probing the gap between communal superstition and the herdsman’s quiet humanity, solitude, and moral consistency.

About the Author

Gerhart Hauptmann

Gerhart Hauptmann was a prominent German playwright and novelist, known for his influential contributions to modern drama. Born in 1862, he became a leading figure in the naturalist movement, exploring themes of social realism and human psychology. His notable works include "Bahnwärter Thiel" and the dramatic trilogy "The Dramatic Works of Gerhart Hauptmann," which showcase his ability to blend poetic language with profound social commentary. Hauptmann's play "Atlantis" reflects his interest in philosophical and existential questions, while his exploration of family dynamics in "The Coming of Peace" highlights his deep understanding of human relationships. His legacy continues to resonate in the world of literature and theater.