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Author: Bernhard Schlink is a German writer and former law professor, best known for his novel “The Reader” (Der Vorleser), which gained international acclaim and was later adapted into a film. His works often explore themes of memory, guilt, and morality, particularly in relation to Germany’s history. With a background in law, Schlink brings a precise and analytical style to his storytelling, blending legal and ethical dilemmas with deeply personal narratives.

Summary: Bernhard Schlink’s “The Reader” follows the story of Michael Berg, a 15-year-old boy in post-war Germany, who has a brief but intense love affair with Hanna Schmitz, a much older woman. Their relationship is marked by a ritual: before their intimate encounters, Michael reads aloud to Hanna from classic literature. One day, Hanna disappears without warning, leaving Michael confused and heartbroken.

Years later, as a law student, Michael attends a war crimes trial and is shocked to see Hanna among the defendants. She is accused of having been a concentration camp guard responsible for the deaths of Jewish prisoners. As the trial unfolds, Michael realizes that Hanna is illiterate and has been hiding her shame of not being able to read. Instead of revealing this fact, she accepts full responsibility for her actions, leading to a severe prison sentence.

Michael remains emotionally conflicted, struggling with his feelings of love, guilt, and the moral complexities of Hanna’s past. Over the years, he records readings of books on tape and sends them to her in prison, though they have no direct contact. Before her release, he finally visits her, only to find her distant and resigned. Shortly after, she takes her own life, leaving Michael to grapple with the weight of their shared history and its implications.

Personal opinion: “The Reader” is a powerful novel that explores guilt, morality, and the weight of history. Michael and Hanna’s complex relationship blurs the lines between love and ethical responsibility, making the story deeply thought-provoking. The theme of generational guilt in post-war Germany is especially striking, as Michael struggles to reconcile personal emotions with moral judgment. Hanna’s illiteracy adds another layer, raising difficult questions about accountability and ignorance. Overall, “The Reader” is an emotional and unsettling read that lingers long after finishing, challenging us to reflect on justice, forgiveness, and human nature.