Hermann Hesse

Hermann Karl Hesse was born on July 2nd in Calw, a town in the Black Forest region of Württemberg, German Empire. His grandparents were missionaries under the Basel Mission, which significantly influenced his cultural background and worldview.

Hermann Hesse's grandfather, Hermann Gundert, compiled a Malayalam grammar and dictionary, contributing to the translation of the Bible into Malayalam in South India, showcasing his linguistic expertise and cultural significance.

Hermann Hesse was born in 1877, the son of Swiss writer Lisa Wenger.

Moved to Basel, Switzerland with family at age four, marking a significant change in his life that would shape his future experiences and perspectives.

Hermann Gundert encouraged Hermann Hesse's love of reading and literature, instilling a sense of global citizenship in him.

Hesse decided to pursue writing as a career, inspired by his half-brother Theo's artistic pursuits and the influence of literature on his life.

Entered the Evangelical Theological Seminary of Maulbronn Abbey, where he began his formal education and spiritual exploration, but struggled with personal crises and conflicts with parents.

Had a rebellious outburst and attempted to flee from the seminary in March, indicating growing frustration and desperation during this period of intense self-discovery and spiritual searching.

Spent time in an institution in Bad Boll after attempting suicide in May, highlighting the severity of his mental health struggles and need for support during a critical juncture in his life.

Attended the Gymnasium in Cannstatt (now part of Stuttgart) at the end of the year, providing him with additional educational opportunities and a sense of stability amidst turmoil.

Johannes Hesse completed his studies at the Gymnasium and passed his examinations, taking over his family's publishing house, Calwer Verlagsverein, from his father Hermann Gundert.

Passed the One Year Examination, concluding his schooling and marking an important milestone in his personal growth and development.

Started a 14-month mechanic apprenticeship at a clock tower factory in Calw in early summer, allowing him to explore new skills and interests outside of academia.

Began a new apprenticeship with a bookseller in Tübingen in October, demonstrating his adaptability and willingness to learn and grow in various fields.

Hermann Hesse began working at a bookshop in Tübingen, specializing in theology, philology, and law, where he organized, packed, and archived books as part of his job duties.

Hesse's poem 'Madonna' was published in a Viennese periodical, marking one of his early literary achievements.

Hesse received a fan letter after publishing his poem 'Grand Valse', indicating growing recognition of his work at this time.

Hesse gained financial independence from his parents, allowing him to support himself without relying on their income, which was achieved through his job and savings.

Hesse's collection of prose 'One Hour After Midnight' was published by Eugen Diederichs, marking a significant milestone in his literary career.

Due to an eye condition that affected him throughout his life, Hesse was exempted from compulsory military service and instead served as a reserve officer for the duration of World War I.

Traveled to Italy in 1901 and began exploring the country's rich history and culture, which would later influence his writing style.

Changed jobs and began working at the antiquarium Wattenwyl in Basel, Switzerland, where he was exposed to ancient artifacts and texts that sparked his interest in classical literature.

His mother died after a long and painful illness, leaving him emotionally vulnerable and struggling to cope with her loss.

Received positive feedback for his poetry and literary texts from critics and publishers, which led to publication opportunities and further recognition of his work.

Hermann Hesse published his first novel, Peter Camenzind, which marked a significant milestone in his literary career and established him as a promising young writer.

Became interested in publisher Samuel Fischer due to the success of Peter Camenzind, a novel that had already gained significant attention and acclaim.

Married Maria Bernoulli, a woman from a prominent family, and started a new chapter in his life with her.

Published Beneath the Wheel, a collection of short stories that showcased his ability to craft compelling narratives and explore themes of identity and human connection.

Registered as a volunteer with the Imperial Army, marking the beginning of Hesse's military service during World War I.

Published an essay titled 'O Freunde, nicht diese Töne' ('O Friends, not these Tones') in the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, expressing his concerns about the war and its impact on society.

Received support from friend Theodor Heuss and French writer Romain Rolland, who encouraged Hesse to continue writing during a difficult time in his life.

Wrote to Rolland, stating that attempts to apply love to matters political have failed, highlighting the personal costs of his involvement in the war effort.

Hesse was granted Swiss citizenship in 1923, marking a significant milestone in his life and career.

Around 1929, Hesse began cohabiting with Ninon Dolbin (née Ausländer), which would eventually lead to their formal marriage in 1931.

Hesse started exploring psychoanalysis and personal growth through therapy as a means of self-discovery and healing.

In 1930, Hesse published 'Narcissus and Goldmund', a novel that explores themes of identity, morality, and the human condition.

Hesse formally married Ninon Dolbin in 1931, solidifying his relationship with her.

In 1932, Hesse published 'Journey to the East', a novel that reflects his fascination with Eastern cultures and philosophies.

As Hitler took power in Germany in March 1933, Hesse was forced to reevaluate his own identity and sense of purpose in the face of rising fascist ideologies.

Hermann Hesse was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognizing his contributions to world literature and his unique writing style that blended elements of mysticism, philosophy, and cultural critique.

Hesse's work experienced a resurgence in popularity after Bertolt Brecht was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1946.

Hesse set three poems to music for his song cycle Four Last Songs, showcasing his musical talents and creative versatility.

The first performance of Hesse's song cycle Four Last Songs took place posthumously, highlighting the enduring impact of his work on the arts scene.

The Hermann-Hesse-Literaturpreis literary prize began being awarded, recognizing Hesse's contributions to literature.

Hesse passed away in that year, leaving behind a legacy as a Nobel laureate and influential figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s.