Mephisto

Interesting Facts

• The novel «Mephisto» was written by Klaus Mann in 1936 and became one of his most famous works, despite being banned in Nazi Germany.
• The main character, Hendrik Höfgen, is an allusion to the real actor Gustaf Gründgens, known for his connections with the Nazi regime.
• The book explores the theme of compromise and moral downfall, showing how the protagonist makes a deal with his conscience for success and power.
• The novel was written in exile after Klaus Mann left Germany due to the Nazi regime, adding a particular sharpness and relevance to the work.
• After the war, Gustaf Gründgens sued the publishers of the novel, claiming it violated his personal rights, and in 1966, a court ruled to ban the book's publication in Germany.