The symbolism of the cross in Ernst Toller's drama "Die Wandlung"
Date
2002
Authors
Russell, Bonnie
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
The symbolism of the cross in Ernst Toiler's 1919 drama Die Wandlung is a preĀeminent representation of the Expressionist theme of "der neue Mensch." This thematic study underlines the relevance of cultural context to the themes associated with the cross symbolism in Die Wandlung, which occurs as Christian symbol of sacrifice and regeneration, the Iron Cross of war honour, and the Red Cross of healing. Association of the theme of Ahasver, the Jew exiled from a Christian world, with the symbolism of the cross offers Toller' s new variation of the theme of "der neue Mensch." The recurrent imagery of the cross in Toller' s later dramas of revolution, Masse Mensch (1919), Die Maschinenestiirmer (1921 ). Hoppla, wir leben! (1927), and Feuer aus den Kesseln (1930), supports a cultural understanding of the cross symbolism in Die Wandlung.