Symbolic Space in The Magic Mountain of Thomas Mann

DOI: 10.18173/2354-1067.2020-0049

Abstract

The Magic Mountain (Der Zauerberg) of Thomas Mann is one of the masterpieces of German literature in particular, of the 20th century world literature in general. In the novel, Thomas Mann created a symbolic space with the mountain in Davos and the nursing center of Davos for tuberculosis patients. The Davos Mountain influenced by sacred mountains in Grimm's fairy tales, is an experience and challenge space for the characters of the novel, especially for Hans Castorp. The nursing center of Davos for tuberculosis patients is a space to test people' patience before the hardships of life with the obsession of disease and death, pushing people to choose: stop walking, accept defeat or continue fighting for a meaningful life