Great Lives
Susie Dent on Thomas Mann
Aug 1, 2023
Lexicographer and etymologist Susie Dent discusses German writer Thomas Mann's exploration of family, beauty, and fascism. They dive into Mann's attraction to young boys in his work, his resistance against Nazism, and the complexities of his personal life. The podcast also delves into the themes of temptation, detachment, and artistic struggles in Mann's writing.
27:56
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Thomas Mann used his platform to denounce Hitler and promote German resistance during World War II.
- Mann's literary works portrayed inner struggles and moral dilemmas, reflecting his own existential tensions.
Deep dives
Thomas Mann's Early Life and Love for German Language
Thomas Mann, a renowned German academic and writer, recorded for the BBC during World War II, using his status to denounce Adolf Hitler and urge German resistance. His deep love and knowledge of German culture stemmed from his early encounters with the language, which he found lyrical and profound, shaped by a dedicated German teacher. Despite common misconceptions of German as harsh or guttural, Mann believed it to be beautifully melodic, reflecting on its poetic essence and the sense of belonging it evoked.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
