Döblin was for decades an active participant in the cultural and political life of Germany. Knowing something of his life and activities, and seeing what contemporaries thought of him and his writings, can help the reader of English engage with his writings.
While Wikipedia articles on Döblin have expanded greatly in the past few years, there is plenty of room for more detailed discussion and analysis. We shall post basic facts about Döblin’s life and works, and look in depth at his critical reception during his life and after.