Sprache und Schweigen

"Language and Silence" by George Steiner is a profound exploration of the relationship between language, literature, and the inhuman. In his essays, first published in English in 1967 and in German translation in 1969, Steiner examines the complex interconnections between high civilization and the roots of the inhuman. He poses provocative questions about the role of classical humanism and its failure in the face of the brutal reality of National Socialism. Through a critical analysis of the German language and its inner dynamics, he challenges readers to question their hope in humanity. This work is not only a literary reflection but also a compelling appeal to engage with human nature and the responsibilities of civilization.