Doctor Faustus Author:Thomas Mann, trans. H. T. Lowe-Porter The novel is a re-shaping of the Faust legend in the context of the first half of the twentieth century and the intellectual, moral and spiritual destiny of Germany and Europe in that period. This is embodied in the life of the hero, a fictional German composer named Adrian Leverk?hn (meaning 'living audaciously') as told by his friend from chil... more »dhood Serenus Zeitblom (meaning 'Serene Flowering (or metaphor) of the Age'). Leverk?hn's early creative, musical and metaphysical explorations and training, in which he displays brilliance, lead to a personal career and life-drama in which he is increasingly preoccupied with the Apocalypse and the Judgement of his soul.« less