A Comparative Study on Narrative Techniques in the Novel Deutschstunde and its 2019 Film Adaptation

Abstract

The adaptation of literary works into films presents unique challenges and opportunities in translating narrative techniques across media. This study provides a comparative analysis of narrative techniques employed in Siegfried Lenz’s novel Deutschstunde and its 2019 film adaptation directed by Christian Schwochow. It explores the complexities of transforming a thematically dense literary narrative into the visual and auditory medium of film. The primary research problem addressed is the extent to whichnarrative strategies in Lenz’s novel Deutschstunde differ from its 2019 adaptation. The methodology consists of a qualitative comparative approach incorporating close reading of the novel and detailed frmal analysis of the film. Central narrative aspects focused on are focalisation, temporal structure, character representation, and the presentation of symbolic motifs. Results indicate that while the film effectively utilises cinematic techniques to depict the oppressive setting and Siggi Jepsen’s inner turmoil, it alters the pervasive frame narrative and extensive interior monologue utilised in the novel, subtly shifting the portrayal of the protagonist’s inner journey and the engagement of the audience with memory. This comparative analysis elucidates the adaptive processes, the impact of different media on narrative delivery, and the continuing relevance of Deutschstunde to adaptation studies.