Author
Leonhard Frank
1882-1961
Leonhard Frank (1882-1961) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Leonhard Frank
Der Bürger
"Der Bürger" by Leonhard Frank is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the life of Jürgen Kolbenreiher, a high school student navigating the complexities of societal expectations, personal identity, and struggles against authority. Through his interactions and internal conflicts, it explores themes of individualism and the pressures imposed by family and society. The opening of "Der Bürger" introduces us to Jürgen Kolbenreiher as he wrestles with his own fears and self-doubt while contemplating purchasing a philosophical pamphlet. As the time ticks on the tower clock, he becomes increasingly aware of his father's looming expectations and the idea of cowardice associated with his hesitations. The narrative captures Jürgen's inner turmoil as he observes disparities between himself and his peers, particularly highlighted by the bleak contrast of a poor boy's admiration for a wealthy girl. This sets the stage for Jürgen's growth and challenges as he grapples with his ambitions, relationships, and the societal structures that confine him.
Die Räuberbande
"Die Räuberbande" by Leonhard Frank is a novel first published in 1914. It follows Michael Vierkant, a rebellious youth in late 19th-century Würzburg who belongs to a gang of young apprentices inspired by adventure novels. The boys dream of freedom and rebellion against oppressive authority figures. As the gang dissolves, Michael breaks from his working-class roots to pursue art in Munich. His journey toward becoming an artist leads him through bohemian circles, personal conflicts, and ultimately a devastating intrigue that threatens everything he has achieved.
Der Mensch ist gut
"Der Mensch ist gut" by Leonhard Frank is a collection of five stories published in 1918. The work advocates radical pacifism through stark portrayals of World War I's cruelties. Each story follows different characters—a waiter, a war widow, a mother, lovers, and a military doctor—whose lives are shattered by war. Frank depicts authoritarian, capitalist societies as the root cause of conflict. The narratives converge as all protagonists join a unified peace protest, culminating in revolution.
Die Ursache: Erzählung
"Die Ursache: Erzählung" by Leonhard Frank is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Anton Seiler, a struggling poet who returns to his hometown after spending fourteen years in Berlin, plagued by memories of humiliation from his youth. The narrative explores themes of past trauma, identity, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult life. The opening of the novel introduces Anton as he feels an inexplicable urge to visit his childhood home, a journey laden with psychological weight. As he travels, his thoughts drift back to painful memories, particularly involving a teacher named Mager, who embodies the source of his past torments. Upon arriving in his hometown, Anton is confronted with mixed emotions and memories that intertwine his current life with significant events from his past. The tension builds as he grapples with those memories, hinting at deeper conflicts that may eventually lead him to commit a desperate act in response to his unresolved feelings of resentment and anger.
Kindheit
"Kindheit" by Leonhard Frank is a novel written in the early 20th century that delves into the complexities of youth and social class disparities. The story follows a young boy named Jürgen Kolbenreiher as he navigates the challenges of growing up in a society that weighs heavily on personal identity and morality. The work reflects on themes of innocence, societal expectations, and the harsh realities faced by those born into different circumstances. The narrative centers around Jürgen's internal struggles and interactions with his family, peers, and the contrasting realities faced by his less fortunate classmate, Leo Seidel. As Jürgen grapples with his self-worth and the expectations imposed by his father and aunt, he also develops a budding consciousness of social injustice, particularly highlighted through his observations of Leo's predicament. The story oscillates between Jürgen's thoughts of rebellion against societal norms and his painful experiences of shame and guilt, ultimately portraying a poignant coming-of-age journey amid competing influences and pressures. The culmination of Jürgen's struggles and the harrowing decisions he faces illustrate the profound impact of childhood experiences on one’s character and outlook on life.