The German Literature Institute Leipzig: 30 years of creative impulses!

The German Literature Institute Leipzig: 30 years of creative impulses!

In the heart of German literature, an impressive institution lives, which for many prospective writers represents a springboard to the creative world: the German Literature Institute Leipzig (DLL). Founded in 1995, the DLL goes back to a long Tradition that began in 1955 with the Institute for Literature "Johannes R. Becher". This was not only the first literature institute of its kind in Western Europe, but also a place where the ideological and artistic training of authors in the sense of socialist realism was encouraged. This information has made available mdr

The forerunner of the DLL offered studying areas in poetry, prose and drama and was a place where legendary teachers like the poet Georg Maurer worked. After the dissolution of the institute in 1990 on the basis of a decision by the Free State of Saxony, which found that the range of courses did not meet the requirements of a democratic society, violent protests by the students followed. These finally led to the founding of the DLL, which has been part of the University of Leipzig since then. The first director, Bernd Jentzsch, was replaced by Hans-Ulrich Treichel and Josef Haslinger who further shaped the institute.

variety and exchange

Today, the DLL offers a wide range of courses in prose, poetry and scenic writing. The students learn in creative writing workshops that promote exchange and constructive criticism. The course has not only developed with regard to the courses; The topics of student work have also changed over the years. In the past, youth culture was a central topic, so it is now many political issues that move the prospective writers.

Since 2006, students have been able to acquire a bachelor's degree, while in 2009 a master's degree with a focus was introduced on novel projects. Ulrike Draesner made another sign with her appointment in 2018: she was the first woman to occupy a chair on the DLL. These developments show the increasing cultural diversity of both the students and teachers, which has a positive effect on the creative climate.

committed learning environment

The atmosphere in the DLL is characterized by an intensive exchange between students and teachers, which is emphasized by Kristof Magnusson, a graduate and teacher. This exchange contributes to the development of a lively literary culture that always produces new impulses. The publication of an anthology with the title "Typical Community" is planned, which appears once a year and documents the fertile dialogue among the students. Every year, around 15 applicants are interested in a place at this renowned institute, which speaks accordingly for the high reputation and quality of the training.