Erich Kästner

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#### Full Name and Common Aliases
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Erich Kästner's full name was Erich Johannes Kästner. He is often referred to as one of the most important German-language writers of the 20th century.

#### Birth and Death Dates
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Kästner was born on June 23, 1899, in Dresden, Germany. He passed away on August 29, 1974, in Munich, West Germany.

#### Nationality and Profession(s)
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Erich Kästner was a German writer, poet, playwright, and satirist. His work spanned various genres, including children's literature, drama, poetry, and essays.

#### Early Life and Background
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Growing up in Dresden during World War I had a profound impact on Kästner's life and writing. His father was killed in the war when Erich was just three years old. This loss led to a difficult childhood for him. Despite these challenges, Kästner found solace in reading and eventually became an avid writer.

Education

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Kästner attended the Dresden Gymnasium before moving to Leipzig to study philosophy at the University of Leipzig. However, due to financial difficulties and his mother's illness, he dropped out of university. Instead, he pursued a career as a journalist and began writing for various publications in 1920.

#### Major Accomplishments
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Kästner's contributions to literature are vast and influential. He wrote numerous novels, short stories, plays, and poetry collections that reflect his experiences during World War I and the subsequent rise of Nazi Germany. Some of his notable works include:

"Lottie und das Verhängnis" (1929): A novel about two children navigating the horrors of war.
"Emil und die Detektive" (1928): A classic children's book that follows a young boy and his friends as they solve a mystery.
* "Fabian" (1931): A satirical novel that explores the lives of Berlin's intellectual elite.

Notable Works or Actions

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In addition to his literary contributions, Kästner was also an outspoken critic of Nazi ideology. He continued writing and publishing throughout the 1930s, despite the increasing repression by the regime. His work often carried subtle messages that critiqued the Nazi regime's policies.

#### Impact and Legacy
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Erich Kästner's impact on German literature is immense. His works have been translated into numerous languages and remain popular worldwide. He played a significant role in shaping children's literature, using his stories to convey important themes about courage, friendship, and resilience.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

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Kästner's legacy extends beyond his literary contributions. His commitment to speaking truth to power during the Nazi era serves as an inspiration for future generations. His writing often carried a message of hope and resistance in the face of adversity, qualities that continue to resonate with readers today.

Erich Kästner's life and work serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and promoting empathy through literature.