Hawes, James Maurice; (1991) Interpreting the testament: The influence of Nietzsche on selected works of German prose literature 1900-1914. Doctoral thesis (Ph.D), UCL (University College London).

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Abstract

This thesis examines the influence of Nietzsche's works on works of German prose between 1900 and 1914. The works studied are Die Verwirrungen des Zoglings Torless by Robert Musil; Per Tod in Venedig by Thomas Mann; Die Aufzeichnungen des Malte Laurids Brigge by Rainer Maria Rilke; Der Untertan by Heinrich Mann; Der Prozess by Franz Kafka and Der Weg ins Freie by Arthur Schnitzler. Other works are referred to as and when this may be required. Having noted the historical background, the thesis first establishes a properly differentiated picture of Nietzsche's work itself, using substantial textual reference. In the subsequent chapter, the theoretical issues of 'influence' are examined. Each of the above prose works is then treated individually in its relationship to Nietzsche. In each case the argument is based upon direct comparisons of the author's text with specific passages from Nietzsche's works. Comparisons between the works concerned are made in order to show that Nietzsche provides each author with different material, and that each uses his borrowings in a different manner. It is concluded in every case that Nietzsche's influence on the author's work has been inadequately acknowledged to varying degrees. It is argued that a recognition of the debts owed by these authors to Nietzsche is an essential part of the process by which they can be placed in their proper historical perspective.

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