The Tin Drum Allusions

Helpful Hint: The 2009 translation by Breon Mitchell has a very handy glossary in the back explaining a lot of the historical and cultural references in the novel. It's a huge help. We'll explain some of the more frequently referenced stuff.

Literary and Philosophical References

• Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (7.32) Rock star German poet, scientist, statesman, novelist, playwright—you name it—of the 18th and 19th century. Oskar learns to read from a book by Goethe. Not your typical childhood reading material.

• Walter Flex (7.13) German author of a famous novel about WWI

Historical References

• Defense of the Polish Post Office (chapters 18-20) The attack on the Post Office by the Germans was considered the first war crime of WWII. The defenders are heroes in Poland.

• Kristallnacht (16.18) November 1938 The beginning of the end for Jews in Germany.

• Rasputin (7.32) Crazy Russian mystic, personal advisor to Tsarina Alexandra of the Romanov family.

• German Invasion of Poland (18.3) 1939, started WWII, as the European allies declared war on Germany immediately after the invasion.

• History of the City of Danzig (19.1-19.7)

• D-Day Invasions (27.203) USA! USA!

• Prince Eugen (9.26) Celeb military guy who fought for the Hapsburg Empire in the 1700s. Bebra claims to be his direct descendant.

Pop Culture References

• Jimmy the Tiger, In the Mood, Hey Ba-Ba-Re-Bop (popular jazz songs of the 1930s and 40s) (9.16)

• Machandel Gin (3.14) Considered the national drink of Danzig

• The Black Cook: in German folklore, an evil figure, like a witch.