Who was Karl May?
Why does his life and work have such a hold on the psyche of the German people, as well as on millions of readers around the world? Toward the end of the 19th century when he was writing, May created a cosmos of fantasy that tapped deeply into the souls of the German people. To this day, thousands of Germans create “Cowboy and Indian” clubs, gather in tribes, and mount huge annual open-air festivals – all to celebrate May’s life and legacy. Reinhold Wolff, chairman of the Karl May Society in Germany says, “He did exactly what best-selling authors do: He reflected the dreams of his times.” Karl May wrote to escape. While in prison, he created his ideal fantasy, a Wild West of freedom, brotherhood and loyalty. And one might say he created characters that embodied all the things he was not: physically strong and morally pure. May’s most famous creation – a noble Apache Chief named Winnetou – has immortalized the very essence of “the Indian” for generations of Germans. And to fulfill his o
