Das Buch im Buch. Untersuchungen zu einem Motiv in der gegenwärtigen literarischen Kommunikation

Abstract

The position of the book as key cultural communication medium has been surrendered to electronic and digital media. However, this break with traditional media has been the catalyst for a new appreciation of the book, even within literature itself. Around the turn of the century a notably high number of novels were published on the German book market. Within these novels, the book frequently appears as the central character. The connection between this and today s media revolution is not coincidental. This doctoral thesis, The book within the book: analysis of the literary motif in contemporary literary communication, illustrates that these recent changes in cultural communication are not the only factor for the appearance of the Book within the book leitmotif. This two-part thesis consists, firstly, of a hermeneutic study of the book-motif in contemporary fiction, both in the original language and in translation. This study shows how the book within the book interacts within the literary environment and how the novel is portrayed within fiction itself, as old and wise, mysterious and enigmatic, unique and special.In part two, the reasons why book-novels are currently a theme in German book publishing, and what the position of the book within contemporary literary communication is, are explored. As a result of ongoing digitisation and increasing cross-linking digital media are in a position to absorb original functions of the book and other instances within literary communication. In conclusion, this doctoral thesis intends to contribute to our improved understanding of contemporary fiction and the current situation of the book market.