Ein Gespräch über Astrid Lindgren - Pippi Langstrumpf und Die Brüder Löwenherz

Classics of Literary History: Ulrike Draesner, John von Düffel

Astrid Lindgren: Pippi Longstocking and The Brothers Lionheart

Astrid Lindgren's characters have shaped generations of children and continue to delight adults to this day. "Pippi Longstocking" is not her first work, but it is certainly the most well-known. Initially, it was rejected by the publisher because it seemed too demanding for a children's book. With a revised text and successful participation in a publishing competition, Lindgren achieved publication in 1945. Many more children's books followed, which are now classics: "Karlsson-on-the-Roof," the Bullerby series, and "Michel from Lönneberga." For her life's work, she received the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade in 1978, during which she delivered the speech "Never Violence." Lindgren clearly advocated for non-violent education, even though at that time, parental rights to corporal punishment were still in effect. The stories of the Swedish children's author tell timeless tales of courage and resistance, love and hope.

On this evening, writer Ulrike Draesner and dramaturg and author John von Düffel will discuss the significance of Lindgren's work today. The focus will be on "Pippi Longstocking" and "The Brothers Lionheart." Timo Brunke will present two texts written specifically for this evening as a prologue and epilogue. The event series Classics of Literary History is supported by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Sports of Baden-Württemberg.