zeit.de
New Novels Explore Illness, Terrorism, and the Search for Meaning
This month's "Was liest Du gerade?" features Daniela Dröscher's "Junge Frau mit Katze," exploring a scholar's mysterious illness; Raphaela Edelbauer's "Die echtere Wirklichkeit," a novel about philosophical terrorists; and Leo Perutz's "Der schwedische Reiter," a classic tale of identity swap and self-discovery in 18th-century Austria.
German
Germany
OtherArts And CultureCultureBook ReviewFictionLiterary AnalysisAustrian LiteratureNew Novels
None
Daniela DröscherRaphaela EdelbauerLeo PerutzAnnie ErnauxTrumpOrbán
- What are the key themes explored in the new novels by Daniela Dröscher and Raphaela Edelbauer, and how do they reflect broader cultural anxieties?
- Daniela Dröscher's new novel, "Junge Frau mit Katze," follows a literature scholar experiencing unexplained symptoms as she prepares for her doctoral exam. The novel explores the ambiguity of illness, touching upon psychosomatic possibilities alongside various medical diagnoses. Her condition improves after a significant life decision.
- How do the narratives of illness in Dröscher's novel and the planned act of terrorism in Edelbauer's novel relate to contemporary social and political issues?
- Dröscher's work contrasts with Raphaela Edelbauer's "Die echtere Wirklichkeit," a novel about "philosophical terrorists" who plan an attack on Vienna University. Edelbauer's plot highlights the anxieties surrounding post-modern theories, fake news, and political polarization, linking intellectual trends to contemporary political events.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the themes presented in these novels, considering their exploration of societal anxieties and responses to perceived meaninglessness?
- Both novels indirectly address the search for meaning in contemporary life. Dröscher's protagonist finds resolution through personal change, while Edelbauer's plot explores violent responses to perceived societal dysfunction. These contrasting approaches reflect broader societal anxieties and the diverse ways individuals cope.
Sustainable Development Goals
Good Health and Well-being Positive
Indirect Relevance
The article discusses a novel where a main character suffers from various health issues, highlighting the importance of seeking medical attention and proper diagnosis. The eventual positive outcome after a life decision indirectly suggests that mental and physical well-being are interconnected.