Literary Salon: Emancipation = Advancement?

Emancipation = Social Advancement?

• Is education a path to freedom – or does social advancement require us to conform to the values and expectations of the middle class?
• To what extent does our social background shape who we are and the opportunities we have in life?
• Is it possible to emancipate oneself from one’s background without denying it – and is reconciliation between the social classes possible?

Participants are invited to discuss what emancipation means today, drawing on different perspectives found in literature.

Look forward to exciting readings, music and stimulating discussions.

Ewald Schürmann examines the educational journey of a social climber.

Ilka Vierkant explores Didier Eribon’s return to Reims.

Heinrich von der Haar will read from his novel *Der Idealist* about background, new beginnings and reconciliation.

Henry-M. Klemt will host the evening, with musical accompaniment by Rita Klemt on the saxophone.