The writer and society

This study is concerned with the social and political awareness apparent in the works of Günter Grass and Heinrich Böll. In particular, the authors' critical stance has been examined and, in some instances, the reaction of West German society to this criticism. Behind Böll's censure there is evident an intention to alert his fellow citizens to the prevailing social inequities, to awaken a deeper sense of democratic values, and, ultimately, to create a more equitable and human society.