Agreed is agreed. Once an agreement has been reached, it is binding and does not require further confirmation.
study, travel, learning
Der Medicus. (The Physician, 2013). Based on the novel by Noah Gordon, this historical drama follows a young man’s journey to become a physician in the Middle Ages. The protagonist’s path is marked by years of study, travel, and careful learning, demonstrating that mastery and wise decisions-both personal and professional-require patience and cannot be rushed.
“Ein Mann, ein Wort.”
“One Man. One word.” A person’s word is their bond; if someone says they will do something, it will be done without the need for follow-up.
Inspector Bärlach
Friedrich Dürrenmatt – Der Richter und sein Henker (The Judge and His Hangman, 1950). This crime novel follows Inspector Bärlach as he investigates the murder of a police officer. The story is a masterclass in methodical investigation, weighing of evidence, and unraveling of motives and circumstances. Dürrenmatt’s work reflects the German tradition of meticulously reconstructing events and motives to reach a just resolution.
Katharina Blum
Heinrich Böll – Die verlorene Ehre der Katharina Blum (The Lost Honor of Katharina Blum, 1974). This novel tells the story of a woman’s life being destroyed by tabloid journalism and public suspicion. The narrative is structured as a quasi-investigative report, presenting evidence, testimonies, and different perspectives to reconstruct the truth behind the scandal. Böll’s novel is a critique of media sensationalism but also a literary experiment in objective reporting and evidence-based narrative, mirroring the German mediator’s analytical approach.
Berlin Conference (1884–1885)
The Berlin Conference (1884–1885). Context: Major European powers, including Germany, convened in Berlin to formalize territorial claims in Africa. The conference lasted several months, with extensive negotiations and careful consideration of complex interests before any decisions were finalized. The process was deliberate and patient, reflecting the German preference for thorough analysis rather than rushed conclusions.
unwavering objectivity
Siegfried Lenz – Deutschstunde (The German Lesson, 1968). In this novel, the main character’s father is a policeman who enforces rules and regulations with unwavering objectivity, regardless of personal relationships. The story explores the consequences of prioritizing duty and performance over personal feelings, reflecting the German value of separating the personal from the professional.
German Unification (19th Century)
The unification of Germany under Otto von Bismarck was achieved through a series of carefully timed wars, diplomatic negotiations, and internal reforms. Bismarck was known for his patience and strategic waiting, choosing the right moment for each diplomatic or military move. Unification was not forced by immediate pressures but was the result of long-term planning and waiting for favorable conditions.