The 1913 publication of The Tunnel marked a turning point in Bernhard Kellermann's career, achieving a global circulation exceeding one million copies and translations into 25 languages. This success cemented his position as a prolific German author whose trajectory spanned the collapse of the German Empire, the Nazi era, and the eventual establishment of the German Democratic Republic.
Formative Years and Literary Debut
Born in 1879 in Fürth, Kellermann began his studies at the Technical University of Munich in 1899, concentrating on German literature and painting. He established himself as a novelist in 1904 with Yester und Li. His 1906 novel Ingeborg proved durable, reaching 131 printings by 1939. His early narrative style relied heavily on impressionistic prose.
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During World War I, he served as a correspondent for the Berliner Tageblatt, filing reports from the conflict. His literary focus shifted toward social criticism as the war progressed. In 1920, he published The Ninth of November, a novel that openly challenged the conduct of officers and soldiers during the conflict. This work earned him significant hostility during the subsequent rise of the Nazi regime, ultimately leading to the public burning of his books.
Global Travels and Political Alignment
Following a 1926 divorce from Lene Schneider-Kainer, Kellermann embarked on a two-year journey across Russia, Persia, India, Thailand, and China, documenting his experiences in several travelogues. After the defeat of the Nazi dictatorship, he remained in Germany and aligned himself with the Cultural Association of the GDR. He served as a member of the Volkskammer and chaired the Society for German-Soviet Friendship.
Final Years
Kellermann received the National Prize of East Germany for his postwar contributions. His active political life continued until his death in 1951, when he advocated for unified deliberations between writers from both German states. He died in Klein Glienicke and is buried at the New Cemetery in Potsdam.
Fast facts
- Born: 1879, Fürth
- Died: 1951, Klein Glienicke
- Education: Technical University of Munich
- Notable Work: The Tunnel
- Political Position: Member of the Volkskammer
- Burial Site: New Cemetery, Potsdam
- Award: National Prize of East Germany
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of The Tunnel?
It was his most successful work, selling over one million copies and appearing in 25 languages.
Why were his books banned during the Nazi era?
His 1920 novel, The Ninth of November, was viewed as a critical attack on the German military, which led to it being banned and burned.
Achievements
- National Prize of East Germany
- Notable work: The Tunnel
- Genres: literary realism
