“The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” — Theodor Fontane
Chapter 1: The Setting
The novel opens in the winter of 1812-1813 in rural Brandenburg, Prussia. The aristocratic von Vitzewitz family resides in Hohen-Vietz, their ancestral estate. The aging patriarch, Berndt von Vitzewitz, is a staunch Prussian patriot who despises Napoleon’s occupation. His son, Lewin, returns home from university, torn between his father’s rigid ideals and his own more liberal views.
Chapter 2: Family Tensions
Lewin’s homecoming stirs tensions. His father disapproves of his modern education and freethinking attitudes. Meanwhile, Lewin reconnects with his childhood friend, Marie, the daughter of a neighboring pastor. Their budding romance is complicated by class differences and the looming political unrest.
Chapter 3: The Gathering Storm
News spreads of Napoleon’s disastrous retreat from Russia. Prussian patriots, including Berndt, begin secretly organizing resistance. Lewin is conflicted—sympathizing with the nationalist cause but wary of war. Marie, caught between loyalty to her pacifist father and her love for Lewin, urges caution.
Chapter 4: The Call to Arms
As anti-French sentiment grows, Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III issues a call for volunteers. Berndt pressures Lewin to enlist, seeing it as his patriotic duty. After much hesitation, Lewin joins the Freikorps, a volunteer militia. Marie gives him a token of her affection as he departs.
Chapter 5: The Home Front
The narrative shifts to Hohen-Vietz, where the women—Berndt’s sister Adelheid, Marie, and the servants—await news from the front. Adelheid, a strong-willed spinster, manages the estate with iron efficiency. Marie helps tend to wounded soldiers, her faith in Lewin’s return unwavering despite grim reports.
Chapter 6: The Battle
Lewin experiences the brutal reality of war at the Battle of Großgörschen. The Prussian forces suffer heavy losses, and Lewin is wounded. He’s saved by a French deserter, forcing him to confront his prejudices. The chapter ends with Lewin missing in action.
Chapter 7: The Aftermath
Back at Hohen-Vietz, false reports of Lewin’s death arrive. Marie refuses to believe them. Meanwhile, Berndt, devastated but proud of his son’s sacrifice, becomes more involved in the resistance. The estate becomes a hub for anti-Napoleonic activities.
Chapter 8: The Reunion
Lewin, having recovered from his wounds, returns home unexpectedly. His experiences have changed him—he’s more reflective and less idealistic about war. His reunion with Marie is emotional, but their future remains uncertain as the war continues.
Chapter 9: The Turning Tide
Prussia and its allies begin gaining ground against Napoleon. Lewin, though still recovering, helps coordinate local resistance efforts. Berndt, seeing his son’s growth, softens somewhat. Marie’s father finally gives his blessing to their relationship.
Chapter 10: The New Dawn
With Napoleon’s defeat at Leipzig, Prussia is liberated. The novel ends on a hopeful note: Lewin and Marie plan their future together, Berndt reconciles with the changing times, and Hohen-Vietz begins rebuilding—both physically and socially—from the ravages of war.
Key Ideas
- The conflict between generations and ideologies in times of national crisis
- The personal costs of war and political upheaval
- The tension between duty and personal happiness
- The changing social order in early 19th-century Prussia
- The resilience of human relationships amid historical turmoil
Who should read this book?
- Readers interested in historical fiction set during the Napoleonic Wars
- Those who enjoy family sagas with rich character development
- Fans of German literature exploring national identity
- Anyone appreciating nuanced portrayals of moral dilemmas