Der Wehrwolf: Eine Bauernchronik

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

22824

Title

Der Wehrwolf: Eine Bauernchronik

Language

de

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in the wild Lüneburg Heath, this chronicle follows the Wulf family as they defend their ancestral home against wolves, bears, and centuries of invading armies. Blending folklore with historical realism, Löns captures the resilience of peasant life through vivid dialect and mythic storytelling.

Summary up to 500 words

Hermann Löns's 'Der Wehrwolf: Eine Bauernchronik' stands as a monumental chronicle of the Wulf family, the steadfast guardians of the Lüneburg Heath. The narrative unfolds across centuries, beginning in a primordial landscape where wolves and bears reigned before human settlers established farms amidst the marshes. The saga details the Wulfs' relentless struggles against Roman legions, Frankish invaders, and the devastation of the Thirty Years' War. Central to the story is Harm Wulf, a figure of iron will who navigates the harsh realities of peasant life with a pragmatic, often humorous outlook. Löns masterfully weaves local dialect, folklore, and historical events, such as battles against Tilly and the Swedes, to illustrate the endurance of rural existence. The text traces the family's evolution from pagan roots to Christianity while maintaining their ancient spirit of resistance. Themes of community, the cyclical nature of war and peace, and the enduring human spirit permeate the chronicle. The narrative concludes with the death of Harm Wulf, leaving his legacy to his descendants who continue to protect their home, symbolized by the Wolfsangel. Through rich imagery and a unique voice, the book offers a profound look at German rural history. Löns captures the resilience of the Haidbauern (heath farmers), who, despite facing famine, plague, and foreign armies, held their ground through cunning and courage. The story highlights how the Wulfs balanced fierce loyalty to their people with a survivalist wit, ensuring that even in the darkest times, the spirit of the heath remained unbroken. The legacy of Harm Wulf lives on in his descendants, who uphold the family's traditions and the symbolic Wolfsangel, representing their eternal commitment to defending their ancestral home.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• History
• Fiction