In the Footsteps of German Culture & Identity - A Plea between Kant and Potato Soup

By Hermann Candahashi

"On the Traces of German Culture & Identity - A Plea between Kant and Potato Soup" is a book that takes the reader on a journey through the various facets of German culture. I want to share my personal observations, experiences, and reflections on the cultural diversity of Germany and impress upon my readers.

In this book, I explore with you the roots of German culture and discover the significance of the German language for Germany and the world, through which we are also connected. I embark on a search for German art and our inventions and developments.

I delve into the culinary delights of German cuisine and learn more about the traditions and customs that are still cherished in Germany today. The rich musical culture is also illuminated, from minnesang to modern music genres.

 

I provide insights into the world of German art and architecture and learn with you about the significant history of Germany that has shaped the country and its people. German holidays and festivals are also examined to provide you with an understanding of the cultural celebrations.

 

A journey to German identity also means grappling with the dark chapters of history. Germany has a tumultuous past marked by wars, conflicts, and political upheavals. Only through understanding the past can we shape the present and future.

However, my intention is not only to impart knowledge but also to evoke emotions. Culture is not only intellectually graspable but also something that touches us on a deeper, emotional level. I will try to convey my own feelings and impressions that I have gathered during these mental journeys through Germany. Whether it's a moving monument, the smell of freshly baked bread in a small bakery, or the sound of a traditional folk music group – it is these small moments that make the beauty and uniqueness of German culture tangible.

A journey through German culture is always a journey to ourselves. Culture shapes us and forms our identity. It is a reflection of our values, history, and dreams. By engaging with German culture, we can not only better understand the country and its people but also ourselves.

 

A journey through German culture is always a journey to ourselves. Culture shapes us and forms our identity. It is a reflection of our values, history, and dreams. By engaging with German culture, we can not only better understand the country and its people but also ourselves.

I want to thank you for accompanying me on this journey and hope that this book opens up new perspectives for you and inspires you to delve deeper into German culture. For only through exploring and appreciating cultures can we shape a strong and confident society.

Now, I invite you to dive into the world of German culture together with me. Get ready for a journey full of surprises, discoveries, and familiarities. Perhaps, at the end of this journey, you will look back with a new understanding of self and a newfound connection to German culture.

During the research for this book, I realized that German culture is a vast and complex field that cannot be captured in a few words. Yet, it is precisely this diversity that makes German culture so unique and exciting.

Therefore, I wrote this book with the awareness that such an attempt inherently carries the risk of failure, as the number of cultural facets and historical events and highlights is vast. Nevertheless, I dared to do so in order to evoke personal memories and reflections in my readers or to awaken a new, informed interest.

I thank you for accompanying me on this journey and possibly following my plea between Kant and potato soup.

 

Hermann Selchow

• Language: English
• Publisher: Hermann Selchow
• Release date: Jun 20, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223826224

Hermann Candahashi

a dear readers, i am hermann candahashi, an author. the unique blend of tradition and modernity that japan offers has always fascinated me and has now become the main subject of my writing. my love for japanese culture began in my early teens. an avid reader of japanese literature myself, i have always been drawn to books that provide insight into asian cultures. japanese literature has been an important source of inspiration for me, and i have spent countless hours reading japanese authors such as haruki murakami, yukio mishima and natsume soseki, kobo abe, and others. their works have given me a deeper understanding of japan's complex history and culture and help shape my own writing. in addition to literature, i am also passionate about japanese cuisine. from the delicate flavors of sushi to the rich broths of ramen, japanese cuisine is a work of art. the care and attention to detail that goes into every dish has always fascinated me. i spent years studying and experimenting with japanese cuisine, and eventually even wrote my own cookbook celebrating the beauty and flavors of japanese food. as an author, i want to bring the beauty and complexity of japanese culture and cuisine to life through my words. i hope to inspire you, the reader, to explore and appreciate the richness of this amazing country for yourself, and to share my passion for japan through my writing. my books do not claim to be scientific or even complete. rather, i would like to bring you closer to a very special country and its people, their customs and traditions in a relaxed and entertaining way. should i succeed in this, i would have achieved my goal. last but not least, it's time to thank a woman whose love i've enjoyed for years and without whose inspiration and perseverance my books would have remained mere ideas. she is my inspiration and strict critic at all times. i am grateful to have you. without you, this would not be possible! thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and my work. i look forward to sharing my stories and insights with you. your candahashi

Book preview

In the Footsteps of German Culture & Identity

A Plea between Kant and Potato Soup

All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2023 Hermann Selchow

Chapters:

Introduction

To the roots of German culture

The Germanic people and their traces

The Holy Roman Empire

Reformation and the Age of Enlightenment

Romanticism and National Consciousness

German Culture in the Digital Era

Digital Identity and Social Impacts

The Future of German Culture

The German Language and Literature

The development of the German language

The Germanic Language Stage

The Emergence of a Standardized High Language

The Influences of Other Languages

The challenges of language maintenance

The German Language in the Digital Age

The German Language Today

The Diversity of the German Language

The German Language and Multilingualism

The Influence of German Literature on World Literature

The German Language in Popular Culture

The German Language in the Context of Migration and Integration

The Diversity of German Cuisine Throughout the Centuries

Regional Delicacies and Culinary Traditions

Here is a recipe for a classic German potato soup:

Traditions and Customs in Germany

Christmas Time and Advent Customs

Carnival and Fasching

Oktoberfest and Bavarian Traditions

Easter and Spring Customs

May Day and Walpurgis Night

Whit Sunday and Pentecost Traditions

Harvest Festival and Harvest Parades

St. Martin and Lantern Parades

Advent and Christmas Customs in Different Regions

New Year's Eve and New Year Traditions

Regional Customs and Holidays

German Hospitality and Lifestyle

German Sports - From Turnvater Jahn to the FIFA World Cup

German Nature and Environment

The Alps – a natural paradise in the south

The Alps as a Retreat

The North Sea and Baltic Sea - Coastal Landscapes of Special Charm

The German Forests - Green Havens of Tranquility

Rivers and Lakes – Lifelines of Nature

The German National Parks - Retreats for Nature

German Music from Minnesang to Wacken

The Baroque Period and Classical Music

Classical Music and Romanticism

From Romanticism to Modernism

German Fashion and Design

The German Film Industry

German Art and Architecture Throughout the Centuries

Germanic Influences on German Art and Architecture

German Science and Technology

The Future of German Culture

Conclusion

A specifically German culture is simply not identifiable, beyond the language.

Aydan Özoguz, Former Commissioner for Integration (SPD) until 2018

Introduction

On the Traces of German Culture & Identity - A Plea between Kant and Potato Soup is a book that takes the reader on a journey through the various facets of German culture. I want to share my personal observations, experiences, and reflections on the cultural diversity of Germany and impress upon my readers.

In this book, I explore with you the roots of German culture and discover the significance of the German language for Germany and the world, through which we are also connected. I embark on a search for German art and our inventions and developments. I delve into the culinary delights of German cuisine and learn more about the traditions and customs that are still cherished in Germany today. The rich musical culture is also illuminated, from minnesang to modern music genres.

I provide insights into the world of German art and architecture and learn with you about the significant history of Germany that has shaped the country and its people. German holidays and festivals are also examined to provide you with an understanding of the cultural celebrations.

Furthermore, I explore the German fashion and design landscape with you and introduce you to the influential German film industry. Together, we discover the role of sports and leisure activities in German society and how Germany has established itself as a leading location for science and technology.

The beauty and diversity of German nature and the importance of environmental protection are also addressed, as well as the hospitality and unique lifestyle of the Germans. Finally, the book looks into the future of German culture and shows how it could continue to evolve in a globalized world.

With well-founded knowledge and personal anecdotes, I aim to take the reader on an enriching journey that confirms and deepens the understanding and appreciation of German culture.

A journey to German identity also means grappling with the dark chapters of history. Germany has a tumultuous past marked by wars, conflicts, and political upheavals. Only through understanding the past can we shape the present and future.

However, my intention is not only to impart knowledge but also to evoke emotions. Culture is not only intellectually graspable but also something that touches us on a deeper, emotional level. I will try to convey my own feelings and impressions that I have gathered during these mental journeys through Germany. Whether it's a moving monument, the smell of freshly baked bread in a small bakery, or the sound of a traditional folk music group – it is these small moments that make the beauty and uniqueness of German culture tangible.

A journey through German culture is always a journey to ourselves. Culture shapes us and forms our identity. It is a reflection of our values, history, and dreams. By engaging with German culture, we can not only better understand the country and its people but also ourselves.

However, this book is not only meant to impart knowledge but also to evoke emotions. Culture is not only intellectually graspable but also something that touches us on a deeper, emotional level. This book aims to bring you those feelings and impressions that have accumulated during these journeys through Germany. Often, it is the small moments that allow individuals to experience the beauty and uniqueness of German culture.

A journey through German culture is always a journey to ourselves. Culture shapes us and forms our identity. It is a reflection of our values, history, and dreams. By engaging with German culture, we can not only better understand the country and its people but also ourselves.

I want to thank you for accompanying me on this journey and hope that this book opens up new perspectives for you and inspires you to delve deeper into German culture. For only through exploring and appreciating cultures can we shape a strong and confident society.

Now, I invite you to dive into the world of German culture together with me. Get ready for a journey full of surprises, discoveries, and familiarities. Perhaps, at the end of this journey, you will look back with a new understanding of self and a newfound connection to German culture.

During the research for this book, I realized that German culture is a vast and complex field that cannot be captured in a few words. Yet, it is precisely this diversity that makes German culture so unique and exciting.

Therefore, I wrote this book with the awareness that such an attempt inherently carries the risk of failure, as the number of cultural facets and historical events and highlights is vast. Nevertheless, I dared to do so in order to evoke personal memories and reflections in my readers or to awaken a new, informed interest.

I thank you for accompanying me on this journey and possibly following my plea between Kant and potato soup.

Hermann Selchow

To the roots of German culture

German culture is characterized by a rich and diverse history that spans many centuries. The roots of this culture are deeply intertwined with the various influences that have shaped the country. From the ancient Germanic tribes to the Holy Roman Empire and to the present-day Federal Republic of Germany, numerous events, ideas, and traditions have contributed to shaping and advancing German culture.

The Germanic people and their traces

The origins of German culture reach far back to the ancient Germanic tribes, a tribal people who lived in the Nordic regions of Europe. The Germanic tribes were known for their warrior traditions, their close connection to nature, and their oral transmission of stories and myths. Their language, which was closely related to the origin of the German language, as well as their customs and rituals, are still present in German culture today.

The Germanic tribes had a strong belief in nature and worshipped various deities. Their religious rituals and festivals were closely linked to the cycle of seasons and are reflected in today's German celebrations, such as the harvest festival or Christmas.

The ancient Germanic tribes were also famous for their stories and myths, which were passed down from generation to generation. This oral tradition laid the foundation for German literature, which has evolved over the centuries. Numerous fairy tales and legends, such as those of the Brothers Grimm, are still part of Germany's cultural heritage today.

The Holy Roman Empire

In the Middle Ages, Germany experienced a crucial phase of its history with the establishment of the Holy Roman Empire. This period shaped German culture in diverse ways and left visible traces that are still present today.

The Holy Roman Empire was a conglomerate of territories and city-states under the rule of the emperor. It extended over large parts of Europe, bringing together various cultural and political currents. During this time, numerous cities emerged, which continue to be important cultural and economic centers in Germany, such as Cologne, Nuremberg, and Frankfurt.

The cultural diversity of the Holy Roman Empire was also reflected in the German language. The various regional dialects and languages spoken within the empire gave rise to a variety of German dialects. This diversity continues to shape the identity of German culture today. Although Standard German (Hochdeutsch) was established as the standardized language, many regions in Germany still have their own dialects that are an important part of regional identity.

Furthermore, the Holy Roman Empire brought a strong connection between politics, art, science, and religion. The emperor of the empire not only claimed political authority but also divine legitimacy. This led to the spread of Christianity throughout Germany and the development of a rich religious tradition. Churches and monasteries were built, where monks and nuns lived and made significant cultural contributions. The art and architecture of this time, such as the Gothic cathedrals, are still admired today.

The relationship between the Holy Roman Empire and German culture was complex. On the one hand, the empire fostered cultural diversity and exchange between different regions. On the other hand, political and religious tensions led to conflicts and divisions. These tensions would continue to be present in the centuries that followed the Holy Roman Empire.

Literature and Language

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, German literature experienced a golden age in the Holy Roman Empire. Famous writers such as Wolfram von Eschenbach, Hartmann von Aue, and Walther von der Vogelweide created significant works in Middle High German. The German language itself continued to evolve during this time and gained higher status.

Literature and language played a significant role in the Holy Roman Empire, which had a long and complex history. Different literary traditions and linguistic styles developed in the various epochs of this empire, shaping the culture and identity of the regions.

During the Middle Ages, the Holy Roman Empire was characterized by a variety of languages. In addition to Latin, which was the language of the Church and scholars, regional dialects and languages were spoken. The vernacular languages slowly began to gain importance and found expression in folk literature. This literary form included oral traditions, legends, fairy tales, and songs that were often passed down from generation to generation.

One important literary work of this time was the Nibelungenlied, an epic tale of heroes, kings, and dragons. The Nibelungenlied was written in Middle High German and remains one of the most well-known works of German literature to this day. It not only reflects the language and culture of the Holy Roman Empire but also the values and ideals of the society of that time.

Over time, courtly cultures also began to develop in the Holy Roman Empire. Rulers and nobles supported art and literature at their courts, creating a flourishing culture of chivalry. The Minnesingers were an important group of poets and musicians who composed love songs and poems and performed at the courts of nobles. Their works were characterized by courtly love, chivalry, and refined language.

The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century marked a new era of literature in the Holy Roman Empire. Books could now be produced faster and in larger quantities, leading to a greater dissemination of knowledge and ideas. The Reformation in the 16th century also had a significant influence on the literature and language of the empire. Martin Luther translated the Bible into German and contributed to the development of a unified German written language. His translation had not only religious significance but also a strong impact on the development of German literature.

In the Baroque period, German literature experienced a golden age. Baroque poets such as Andreas Gryphius and Paul Fleming created works of great poetic beauty and complexity. The language became rich and expressive, and the poets played with wordplay, metaphors, and symbolic language. The Baroque period was also marked by political and religious conflicts, and literature reflected these tensions. Political writings, satires, and allegorical works emerged, capturing the mood of the time.

In the 18th century, the Holy Roman Empire experienced a period of intellectual awakening and enlightenment. The language became clearer and simpler, and literature increasingly reflected rational and philosophical ideas. Writers such as Gotthold Ephraim Lessing and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe shaped this era with their works. Lessing is considered one of the most important playwrights and critics of German-language theater, while Goethe created a literary classic with his work The Sorrows of Young Werther.

In the 19th century, the Holy Roman Empire experienced a phase of political upheaval and national identity formation. The ideas of Romanticism and nationalism gained importance, and literature became a means to express national sentiments and ideals. The Brothers Grimm collected and published folk tales, thus contributing to the creation of a common German cultural heritage. Friedrich Hölderlin, Heinrich Heine, and other poets shaped the romantic literature of this time.

With the foundation of the German Empire in 1871, the Holy Roman Empire was replaced by a modern nation-state. The German language became the official language of the empire, and German literature experienced a period of cultural prosperity. Authors such as Thomas Mann, Franz Kafka, and Hermann Hesse created significant works that gained international fame. German literature was characterized by a diversity of styles and themes that reflected the societal and political changes of the time.

Music

The Holy Roman Empire was a center for the development of European music. Important musical traditions and composers such as Heinrich Schütz, Johann Sebastian Bach, and George Frideric Handel were born or worked in cities like Nuremberg and Leipzig within the empire. Church music, especially Protestant chorale music, flourished and profoundly influenced the history of European music.

Music and poetry played a prominent role in the Holy Roman Empire. Within this empire, which encompassed a variety of territories and peoples, a rich musical and literary tradition emerged. The musical culture in the Holy Roman Empire was diverse and shaped by regional differences. There were court chapels, church music, bourgeois music societies, and folk traditions.

Court chapels composed and performed music pieces for the rulers and the nobility. The composers were often employed court musicians who created works representing the wealth and power of the court. Court chapels served as centers of musical innovation and facilitated exchange between different regions of the empire. Renowned composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, and George Frideric Handel worked in court chapels within the Holy Roman Empire.

Church music also played a significant role in the musical life of the empire. The Catholic Church exerted particular influence and shaped the musical practices of many regions. Gregorian chant and polyphony were important styles in church music. The composition of masses, motets, and sacred songs was a significant artistic activity. Music served religious worship and contributed to the spiritual experience of the faithful.

In addition to music, poetry flourished in the Holy Roman Empire. Literature and poetry were closely intertwined with music and often performed in musical form. Epic poetry, lyrical poems, and dramas were written by many authors. The German Minnesingers of the Middle Ages were famous for their love songs and poetry. Walther von der Vogelweide, one of the most significant Minnesingers, was active in the Holy Roman Empire.

Over time, a bourgeois music scene also developed. Music societies were founded to provide a platform for music lovers to perform and exchange ideas. These societies organized concerts, musical evenings, and competitions. The bourgeois music culture was less elitist than court music and offered broader participation for musically interested citizens.

Folk traditions in the Holy Roman Empire were diverse and reflected the cultural diversity of the empire. Different musical and poetic expressions developed in various regions of the empire and were closely connected to people's everyday lives.

Folk music played an important role in rural areas. It was often performed at festive occasions such as weddings, harvest festivals, or village celebrations. Folk music groups, consisting of musicians, singers, and dancers, performed and invited people to sing along and dance. The lyrics of folk songs addressed everyday themes, love, nature, or historical events and were often passed down orally.

Regional dialects and vernaculars also found their place in the music and poetry of the Holy Roman Empire. Many folk songs were sung in the respective dialects and contained local peculiarities and expressions. This diversity of languages and dialects reflected the cultural diversity of the empire and testified to regional identity and variety.

In addition to folk music, there was also a vibrant literary tradition in the empire. Writers and poets published poems, novels, and plays often inspired by historical events, knight stories, or mythological themes. One of the most well-known writers of this time was Hans Sachs, who became famous as a Meistersinger in Nuremberg. He wrote numerous poems and dramas and is considered an important representative of German literature in the 16th century.

In the course of the Reformation, music and poetry also played a significant role. The Reformation brought about changes in religious practices and led to the introduction of German-language Protestant hymns. Martin Luther, one of the prominent prominent reformers, translated liturgical texts and psalms into German and created new hymns for the church. These new hymns were more accessible to the congregations and contributed to the spread of Reformation ideas.

The connection between music and poetry in the Holy Roman Empire was close and mutually inspiring. Many poets wrote their works with the intention that they would be set to music and interpreted musically. Musical composers, in turn, drew inspiration from literary texts and set poems and dramas to music. This close collaboration between musicians and poets resulted in a wealth of musical-literary works that are still appreciated today.

With the end of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806 and the emergence of new political and cultural developments, music and poetry in Germany underwent changes. However, the musical and poetic tradition of the Holy Roman Empire remains an important part of German culture.

Architecture

The Holy Roman Empire was a melting pot of various architectural styles. Romanesque, Gothic, and later Renaissance and Baroque architecture shaped the empire. Famous structures such as Cologne Cathedral, Aachen Cathedral, and Wartburg Castle are examples of the impressive architecture that emerged during the empire's reign.

In the Holy Roman Empire, a fascinating architectural landscape developed. This era was characterized by a variety of cultural, political, and religious influences that were reflected in the architecture. From majestic cathedrals to magnificent castles and city fortifications, the Holy Roman Empire left a rich heritage of architectural masterpieces.

Architecture in the Holy Roman Empire was influenced by various styles and movements. During the Middle Ages, Romanesque architecture dominated, characterized by massive structures with round arches, thick walls, and small windows. One of the outstanding Romanesque structures is Speyer Cathedral, which is considered one of the largest Romanesque buildings in the world. It impresses with its impressive size and harmonious proportions.

With the advent of Gothic architecture in the 12th century, a new era began in the architecture of the Holy Roman Empire. Gothic architecture was characterized by high pointed vaults, large windows, and delicate stonemasonry. Cologne Cathedral is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and became a symbol of medieval architecture. With its imposing towers and intricate facades, it is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

During the Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries, architecture in the Holy Roman Empire underwent another transformation. Inspired by antiquity and the ideals of harmony and proportion, architects created magnificent palaces, churches, and townhouses. An notable example is Heidelberg Castle, which exhibits a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements. With its elegant columns, arches, and ornaments, it embodies the spirit of the Renaissance.

In the Baroque period of the 17th and 18th centuries, architecture in the Holy Roman Empire reached new levels of grandeur. Baroque architecture was characterized by opulent decorations, lush forms, and a play of light and shadow. An outstanding example is the Wies Church in Bavaria, which impresses with its splendid facade, richly decorated interiors, and masterful use of light.

Over the centuries, architecture in the Holy Roman Empire continued to evolve, incorporating influences from different eras and regions. In addition to the mentioned styles, elements of the Baroque, Neoclassicism, and Historicism were also employed. Magnificent town halls, merchant houses, and trading exchanges were built in the cities, reflecting the wealth and influence of the Holy Roman Empire. A notable example of late Baroque architecture in the Holy Roman Empire is the Ludwigsburg Residential Palace. With its opulent facades, splendid interiors, and extensive gardens, it is an impressive testimony to the power and wealth of the time.

In the 19th century, political and social changes led to new architectural trends in the Holy Roman Empire. With the rise of Historicism, past architectural styles and forms were revived and reinterpreted in a modern context. This resulted in a variety of buildings in the styles of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Gothic, and Neo-Baroque. The Reichstag building in Berlin is a well-known example of Neo-Renaissance architecture from that period. With its imposing dome and elaborately decorated facades, it embodies the spirit of Historicism.

With the beginning of the 20th century and the advent of Modernism, architecture in the Holy Roman Empire underwent another radical transformation. Inspired by new materials and technological possibilities, structures were created that were characterized by clean lines, functionality, and a rejection of unnecessary ornamentation. An outstanding example of modern architecture in the Holy Roman Empire is the Fagus Factory in Alfeld. Designed by Walter Gropius, the factory building is considered a milestone of modern architecture and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.

During World War II, many historical structures in the Holy Roman Empire were destroyed or heavily damaged. After the war, reconstruction became an important task, aiming to preserve the historical character of the cities while incorporating modern accents. An outstanding example of reconstruction is the Frauenkirche in Dresden. The impressive church building was reopened in 2005 after decades of restoration and is now a symbol of reconciliation and unity.

In recent decades, architecture in the Holy Roman Empire has continued to evolve and adapt to the needs of a modern society. Cities have been enriched with modern skyscrapers, innovative housing concepts, and public spaces with contemporary designs. At the same time, the preservation and restoration of historical buildings are still cherished, aiming to preserve the cultural heritage of the Holy Roman Empire.

The architecture of the Holy Roman Empire is a fascinating and multifaceted topic, ranging from the magnificent churches and castles of the Middle Ages to the opulent structures of the Baroque era and the modern architectural movements of the 20th century. The diversity of architectural styles and the rich historical significance make the architecture of the Holy Roman Empire an inexhaustible field of research.

A significant feature of the architecture in the Holy Roman Empire was the close connection between architecture and religion. Churches and cathedrals played a central role in religious life and were often the most striking buildings in a city or region. They served not only as places of worship but also as testimonies to faith and the power of the Church. The construction of magnificent cathedrals was an expression of the wealth and significance of a city or diocese.

An outstanding example of religious architecture in the Holy Roman Empire is Cologne Cathedral. With its imposing size and delicate decorations, it is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The construction of Cologne Cathedral spanned several centuries and was only completed in the 19th century. It stands as a symbol of the artistic and technical achievement of the time.

In addition to sacred buildings, secular structures also played an important role in the architecture of the Holy Roman Empire. Castles and palaces were not only residences of rulers but also symbols of their power and authority. They were often surrounded by defensive walls and towers, serving