Description
This thesis deals with Gustav Freytag's attitude toward anti-Semitism as reflected in his works. After a short introductory definition of the problem and a preliminary hypothesis, the history of anti-Semitism in Central Europe is briefly outlined. Freytag's works dealing with the Jews are then discussed. These include his articles "Die Juden in Breslau" and "Eine Pfingstbetrachtung," as well as his best-selling novel Soll und Haben. In addition, his personal experiences are reviewed with regard to the influence they had on his writings. An analysis of the secondary literature dealing with the problem follows. Most of the authors of this literature defend Freytag against attacks of anti-Semitism. Among these authors are Karl Fleischer, Heinz Kolke, T. E. Carter, Berthold Auerbach, Hans Lindau, Walter Silz, and George L. Mosse. My own interpretation of Gustav Freytag's writings is given, and attention is drawn to the fact that Freytag displayed a lack of knowledge of Jewish customs and showed a biased view in his novel. In conclusion, it is noted that, although Gustav Freytag was not an anti-Semite, his works did give the impression of anti-Semitism and did, indeed, create the same effect as the works of an anti-Semite.
