Idea of the West in "The Magic Mountain"

Gonca TOPAL

Master's thesis

Literary and Cultural Approaches

Abstract:

The thesis investigates the idea of the West within Thomas Mann's 'The Magic Mountain', while the ideas and debates on the topic are observed through certain representative characters of the novel. The different perceptions of the concept of the West are also analysed in connection to the author's relevant biographical links to the novel. For such literary representations may reflect much of the philosophy and main influences of its era, the novel would become an important source in understanding the complex notion of the 'West' in Europe. In order to present a detailed analysis and discussion on the elements that are directly relevant to the understanding of the idea of the West, specifically the characterizations of Settembrini, Castorp, Chauchat and Naphta will be offered. Certain discussions between those characters as well as the general framework of the novel are also considered from different aspects of the previous studies made on the novel.

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 28. 3. 2012

Accessible from:: 28. 3. 2012

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: PhDr. Jozef Matula, Ph.D.

PALACKÝ UNIVERSITY IN OLOMOUC

Philosophical Faculty

Master programme / field:
Cultural Studies / Euroculture