Nachts Schlafen Die Ratten Doch Kurzgeschichte

Willkommen! If you're planning a trip to Germany, especially to cities like Berlin or Hamburg, you might stumble upon references to a short story called "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" (The Rats Do Sleep At Night). It's a classic piece of post-war German literature, and while it might not be on every tourist's itinerary, understanding its context and themes can offer a deeper appreciation for the country's history and culture. This guide will give you all the information you need to understand the story and its significance, even if your German isn't perfect!

What is "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" about?

The story, written by Wolfgang Borchert in 1947, is incredibly short – often just a few pages. Don't let the length fool you; it's packed with meaning and emotional impact. It takes place in the rubble-strewn landscape of post-World War II Germany, specifically Hamburg. Imagine scenes of utter devastation, buildings reduced to piles of bricks, and a pervasive sense of loss and despair. That's the backdrop for this seemingly simple tale.

The story centers around a young boy named Jürgen, who is guarding a pile of rubble. Another boy, an older one, approaches him and discovers Jürgen is protecting something there. He says that there are no rats at night anyway as they are scared. Jürgen explains that he is guarding a dead solider to stop the rats eating it. This simple interaction unearths the trauma and the desperation of people who had lost their family members during the war.

The title itself, "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" (The Rats Do Sleep At Night), is deeply ironic. The older boy attempts to comfort Jürgen with this statement, but the reality is far more complex. The rats, symbolic of the decay and destruction that permeated post-war Germany, represent the constant threat and the lingering horrors of the war. The older boy also brings him a crust of bread with marmalade in an attempt to alleviate the desperation of the young boy.

Key Themes Explored:

• Innocence Lost: Jürgen represents the children who grew up during the war, their innocence shattered by the violence and destruction they witnessed. He is forced to confront death and the harsh realities of survival at a very young age.
• The Scars of War: The physical and emotional scars of the war are evident throughout the story. The rubble serves as a constant reminder of the devastation, while the characters grapple with loss, trauma, and the struggle to rebuild their lives.
• Hope Amidst Despair: Despite the bleak setting, the story offers a glimmer of hope. The act of human kindness between the two boys – the older boy offering companionship and food – suggests the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of finding connection and compassion even in the darkest of times.
• The Burden of Memory: The story subtly explores the burden of memory and the need to confront the past. Jürgen's act of guarding the rubble pile can be seen as a way of honoring the dead and acknowledging the suffering that has occurred.

Why is "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" so important?

This short story is a cornerstone of post-war German literature for several reasons:

• It captures the mood of the time: Borchert's writing style is stark and realistic, perfectly reflecting the devastation and emotional turmoil of post-war Germany. He doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of life, but also finds moments of humanity amidst the chaos.
• It's a powerful anti-war statement: Although not explicitly stated, the story implicitly condemns the horrors of war and its devastating impact on individuals and society.
• It sparked a literary revolution: Borchert was a key figure in the "Trümmerliteratur" (Rubble Literature) movement, which aimed to depict the immediate aftermath of the war in a raw and unfiltered way. This movement challenged traditional literary styles and paved the way for new voices in German literature.
• It's a reminder of the importance of empathy: The story's enduring power lies in its ability to evoke empathy and understanding for those who have suffered. It reminds us of the human cost of conflict and the importance of compassion and connection.

Where Can You Learn More (and potentially see it in person)?

While the story itself isn't a tangible tourist attraction, understanding its significance can enrich your experience of visiting certain places in Germany. Here are some ideas:

• Hamburg: The story is set in Hamburg, and visiting areas that were heavily bombed during the war can help you visualize the setting. Consider visiting the St. Nikolai Memorial, the ruins of a church destroyed in the bombings, which serves as a powerful reminder of the destruction. Museums such as the Hamburg Museum or the Deutsches Historisches Museum can put the events of WWII into perspective and show the impacts on the German Population.
• Literary Museums and Archives: Check for temporary exhibits or special events related to Wolfgang Borchert or "Trümmerliteratur" at literary museums and archives in Germany. The Deutsches Literaturarchiv Marbach is a significant resource, though it might require some German language skills to fully explore its holdings.
• Bookstores and Libraries: Many bookstores in Germany will carry collections of Borchert's works, including "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch." You can also find translations in English if your German is limited. Public libraries are another great resource for finding books and potentially attending readings or discussions.
• Theaters: Some theaters in Germany occasionally stage adaptations of Borchert's stories. Check local listings for performances during your visit.

Understanding the Language (Even if You Don't Speak German Fluently)

Even if you don't speak German fluently, you can still appreciate the story's impact. Here are a few key phrases and words to be aware of:

• Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch: The rats do sleep at night. The title phrase, central to the story's irony.
• Trümmer: Rubble, debris. A key word describing the post-war landscape.
• Jürgen: The name of the young boy, the central character.
• Krieg: War.
• Hunger: Hunger.
• Angst: Fear.
• Hoffnung: Hope.

Consider reading an English translation alongside the original German text. This can help you grasp the nuances of Borchert's writing and the emotional depth of the story. Also, look up a summary of the plot online to get an overview of the story's content.

Here is a short extract of the original story:

„Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch", sagte der Junge. Er hatte eine schmale, blasse, hungrige Kinderfratze. Und in dem Gesicht standen hellwach und fragend zwei große Augen.

„Ja", sagte der Mann, „gewiß. Nachts schlafen sie."

Der Junge aber blickte den Mann nicht an. Er blickte auf den Trümmerhaufen. Er hockte davor wie ein kleiner, müder, schmutziger Wachposten.

Here is what makes the story so special:

• The use of very short sentences and simple language.
• The contrast of reality (rats running around in the rubble) and the hope that is expressed with the title "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch".
• The powerful simplicity to describe the young boy.

Incorporating "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" into Your Trip

Here are some ways to incorporate your understanding of "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" into your travels:

• Reflect during quiet moments: Take some time to reflect on the story's themes while exploring historical sites or memorials. Consider the experiences of those who lived through the war and the challenges they faced in rebuilding their lives.
• Visit local cafes or restaurants: Engage in conversations with locals (if your German allows) about their memories of the war or their perspectives on post-war German history. You might be surprised by the stories you hear.
• Support local bookstores and artists: Purchase a copy of the story or other works by Borchert from a local bookstore. You can also support artists who create works inspired by the war or its aftermath.
• Watch a related Movie or Documentary: Many movies and documentaries have been made about the post-war time. "Deutschland, deine Künstler" shows the important authors after 1945, including Wolfgang Borchert.

Final Thoughts

"Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" is more than just a short story; it's a window into a crucial period in German history. By understanding its context and themes, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the country's culture, its struggles, and its enduring spirit. So, next time you're in Germany, remember Jürgen and the rubble pile. Let the story inspire you to look beyond the surface and connect with the human stories that have shaped this remarkable nation.

Enjoy your trip, and may it be filled with enriching experiences and meaningful connections!