- “Demian” by Hermann Hesse (1919) – Although not explicitly set in Hessen, this philosophical novel by the German author Hermann Hesse explores themes of self-discovery and identity. Hesse himself was born in the town of Calw, which is in the state of Baden-Württemberg, neighbouring Hessen.
- “The Glass Bead Game” by Hermann Hesse (1943) – Another notable work by Hermann Hesse, this novel is set in a future society and centres around an intellectual game. While the specific setting is not mentioned, Hesse drew inspiration from his experiences in Hessen.
- “The Zero and the One” by Ryan Ruby (2017) – This novel takes place in various locations, including Frankfurt, Hessen’s largest city. It delves into the friendship between two university students and explores themes of privilege, nihilism, and the pursuit of identity.
- “The Name of the Rose” by Umberto Eco (1980) – While not exclusively set in Hessen, this acclaimed historical mystery takes place in an Italian monastery during the 14th century. However, the novel references Frankfurt and the Frankfurt Book Fair as significant literary events.
- “Leaning Towards Infinity” by Sue Woolfe (1996) – Although not solely set in Hessen, this novel partly takes place in Frankfurt and is inspired by the life and work of mathematician Georg Cantor. It explores themes of love, art, and the pursuit of mathematical understanding.
- “The Magic Mountain” by Thomas Mann (1924) – Set in a sanatorium in the Swiss Alps, this renowned novel by Thomas Mann includes references to Frankfurt and explores themes of illness, time, and the clash between the sensual and the intellectual.
- “The Hessian Chronicles” by Marcella Babarova (2013) – This historical novel spans the 17th and 18th centuries, including events such as the Thirty Years’ War and various conflicts in Europe. While the focus is not exclusively on Hessen, the region plays a significant role.
- “The Swarm” by Frank Schätzing (2004) – Although primarily set in the world’s oceans, this popular science fiction thriller makes references to Frankfurt and involves characters and events connected to Hessen.
- “Acts of Infidelity” by Lena Andersson (2018) – While not exclusively set in Hessen, this novel features a protagonist who travels to Frankfurt and explores themes of love, infidelity, and self-discovery.
- “The Piano Teacher” by Elfriede Jelinek (1983) – This novel, set in Austria, revolves around the life of a piano teacher. Although not directly set in Hessen, Jelinek was born in Mürzzuschlag, Austria, which is close to the Hessian border.
WANDERLIST: Ten famous novels set in Frankfurt
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