Narcissus and Goldmund
(Author) Hermann Hesse'One of his masterpieces . . . without doubt a great novel' Guardian One of Hermann Hesse's greatest novels, Narcissus and Goldmund is an extraordinary recreation of the Middle Ages, contrasting the careers of two friends, one of whom shuns life in a monastery and goes on the road, tangled in the extremes of life in a world dominated by sin, plague and war, the other staying in the monastery and struggling, with equal difficulty, to lead a life of spiritual denial. An superb feat of imagination, Narcissus and Goldmund can only be compared to such films set in medieval Europe as Bergman's The Seventh Seal and Tarkovsky's Andrei Rublev. It is a gripping, profound reading experience - as startling, in its different way, as Hesse's Siddhartha and Steppenwolf.
Hermann Hesse
Hermann Hesse was a German-Swiss author and poet known for his exploration of existential themes and spiritual journeys in his works. His most notable works include "Siddhartha" and "Steppenwolf", which delve into the search for meaning and self-discovery.
Hesse's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose, rich symbolism, and deep introspection. He often drew inspiration from Eastern philosophy and mysticism, blending it with Western literature to create a unique and profound body of work.
Hesse's contributions to literature include his influence on the development of modernist and existentialist literature, as well as his exploration of the human experience and the pursuit of individuality. His most famous work, "Siddhartha", continues to be widely read and celebrated for its timeless themes and universal truths. Hermann Hesse remains a revered figure in the world of literature for his profound insights into the human condition and his enduring impact on the literary landscape.