Die Siedler von Hohenmoor: Ein Buch des Zornes und der Zuversicht

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

57872

Title

Die Siedler von Hohenmoor: Ein Buch des Zornes und der Zuversicht

Language

de

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in post-WWI Germany, this novel follows Horst Oldefeld and his fellow soldiers as they establish a settlement at Hohenmoor. Blending harsh realism with idealistic fervor, the story explores themes of national redemption, the reconciliation of former enemies, and the struggle to rebuild a fractured society through collective labor and shared purpose.

Summary up to 500 words

Max Dreyer's *Die Siedler von Hohenmoor: Ein Buch des Zornes und der Zuversicht* presents a sweeping narrative of German reconstruction following the devastation of World War I. The story centers on Horst Oldefeld, a former officer who, alongside comrades like Dankwart Hamerslag and the spirited Kunz Rutenberg, secures a dilapidated brickyard and peat bog to create a new settlement. The text vividly depicts the physical hardships of clearing the moor, felling trees, and building homes, framed by a profound sense of duty to the 'poor fatherland.' The narrative delves into the psychological landscape of a generation scarred by war and political turmoil. It portrays the tension between the old guard, represented by the resilient Baron von Borkhus, and the new, radicalized youth who have fought in Freikorps against Spartakist uprisings. A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the internal conflict of Horst, who must navigate the trauma of burying a friend while engaging with Lona, an artist whose avant-garde views challenge his traditional outlook. Through their interactions, the novel suggests that true healing lies not in vengeance but in understanding and unity. The plot advances through scenes of communal breakfasts where rank is ignored, the dramatic confrontation with occupying forces that tests the settlers' resolve, and the eventual symbolic reconciliation between opposing political factions, including a handshake with the communist Stahlboom. The work culminates in a celebration of German unity, rejecting the 'chaos' of division in favor of a shared vision for a free people on free soil. Dreyer employs a lyrical, passionate style, utilizing nature imagery and patriotic songs to underscore the characters' desperate hope for a future where the 'chains of hate' break like glass.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg57872.epub

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Categories

• Fiction