Justice, Literature, and Remembrance – A Conversation with Philippe Sands and Bernhard Schlink, moderated by Géraldine Schwarz

Justice, Literature, and Remembrance: A Conversation with Philippe Sands and Bernhard Schlink

When the past casts its shadow over the present, engaging with it becomes a process through which society reaffirms its place in the world. This process takes place not only in historical research and legal discourse, but also—and especially—in literature. The authors and lawyers Philippe Sands and
Bernhard Schlink takes the major catastrophes of modern German history as his starting point
her most recent short stories. What role does the literary examination of the past play alongside historical and legal approaches? What moral and political standards must it meet? These questions will be explored in depth during a discussion moderated by author and journalist Géraldine Schwarz.

In his investigative work *The Rat Line* (2021), British-French writer and lawyer Philippe Sands recounts the story of SS officer Otto Wächter’s escape. Drawing on private letters and diaries from the family
Wächter provides Sands with insights into the strategic networks of Nazi collaborators. At the same time, the film also explores how Wächter’s life is viewed today from his son’s perspective.

The novella „Die Enkelin“ (2021) by German lawyer and author Bernhard Schlink also centers on an escape—that of a citizen of the GDR. The novel deals with conflicting memories, repressed guilt, and the struggle between different worldviews.

Moderated by Géraldine Schwarz

The event will take place at English takes place.

Admission and Participation: Unfortunately, the event is already fully booked. Registration is no longer available.

A collaboration between Academy for the Protection of Human Rights in Europe and the Forum Recht Foundation.