Testimony of Epochs Through Literature

The National Library is currently hosting an intriguing exhibition, showcasing a captivating collection of literature that delves into political upheaval and historical events. This unique display features a diverse range of works from renowned authors, spanning several decades.

One of the highlights of the exhibition is "The Greater Hope" by Ilse Aichinger, published in 1948. This poignant piece adds depth to the exhibition's exploration of post-war literature. Another significant work on display is Karl Kraus's "The Last Days of Mankind", first published in 1922, which offers a powerful commentary on the First World War.

The exhibition also features Heimrad Bäcker's "nachschrift", published in 1997, and Thomas Bernhard's "Heldenplatz", published in 1988. Both works offer insightful perspectives on contemporary Austrian society.

The exhibition is divided into two main sections. The first section focuses on literature during political upheaval, offering a fascinating look at how authors have grappled with tumultuous times. This section includes Robert Musil's "The Man Without Qualities", published in 1930, which offers a satirical critique of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the brink of collapse.

The second section of the exhibition explores literature during historical events. One of the standout pieces in this section is "The Radetzky March" by Joseph Roth, published in 1932, which provides a poignant portrayal of the declining Habsburg Empire.

In addition to these works, a graphic novel adaptation of "The Last Days of Mankind" by R. Pietsch and D. Boller, published in 2014, is also part of the exhibition. This adaptation offers a unique perspective on Kraus's powerful work.

The authors featured on the exhibition's Cabinet Levels are a testament to the breadth and depth of the works on display. Alexander Solzhenitsyn and Bertolt Brecht are showcased on Cabinet Level 1, while George Orwell and Anna Seghers can be found on Level 2. Milan Kundera and Nawal El Saadawi are featured on Level 3.

This exhibition offers a compelling look at the power of literature to reflect and shape our understanding of history and politics. Whether you're a literature enthusiast or simply curious, this exhibition is not to be missed.