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The Radical Appeal of Hermann Hesse's Alternative Community.(Critical Essay)

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From: Utopian Studies
Date: 19990101
Author:WILDE, LAWRENCE

The intent behind author Hermann Hesse's portrayal of flawed utopias is examined. It is argued that although Hesse intentionally created imperfect worlds in his novels, his characters retain utopian ideals and the spiritual and intellectual refinement needed to achieve them.

I am at odds with the political thinkers of all trends, and I shall always, incorrigibly, recognise in man, in the individual man and his soul, the existence of realms to which political impulses and forms do not extend. (ITWGO, 11)(1)

DETACHMENT, AUTONOMY, and the quest for spiritual self-fulfilment are the ...

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