Mephisto

Brief Overview

The novel «Mephisto» by Klaus Mann tells the story of actor Hendrik Höfgen, who is willing to compromise his conscience for the sake of career and success. Set against the backdrop of the rise of the Nazi regime in Germany, Höfgen, a talented yet ambitious actor, uses his connections and charm to gain recognition and power. He engages with Nazi leaders, allowing him to secure a high position in the theatrical world, but this also leads to moral degradation and internal conflict. The novel explores themes of compromise, betrayal, and personal responsibility within a totalitarian society.