Writer. He is considered by many to be one of Europe's most important authors since WWII, and many of his novels and stories are part of the contemporary German literary canon. His most famous work, "Deutschstunde" ("The German Lesson"), won international acclaim. It explores the theme of duty and why some Germans followed orders blindly during the Nazi era. Politically, Lenz was a Social Democrat and supporter of Willy Brandt as well as of the causes of reconciliation with Israel and Poland. He was awarded dozens of literary prizes and was made an honorary citizen of his hometown, now Ełk, in Warmińsko-Mazurskie, Poland, but Lyck, in East Prussia, at the time of his birth.
Writer. He is considered by many to be one of Europe's most important authors since WWII, and many of his novels and stories are part of the contemporary German literary canon. His most famous work, "Deutschstunde" ("The German Lesson"), won international acclaim. It explores the theme of duty and why some Germans followed orders blindly during the Nazi era. Politically, Lenz was a Social Democrat and supporter of Willy Brandt as well as of the causes of reconciliation with Israel and Poland. He was awarded dozens of literary prizes and was made an honorary citizen of his hometown, now Ełk, in Warmińsko-Mazurskie, Poland, but Lyck, in East Prussia, at the time of his birth.
Bio by: K. C. Mellem
Family Members
Advertisement
