Chapter 1, The Call Summary

Hesse claims that there is no knowledge of the origins of Knecht. They assume that he was an orphan or lived in foster-care. Knecht, therefore, did not experience the conflict between home and elite school that others have faced. Knecht seems to have been destined for Castalia and the Board of Educators. Knecht is not a fanatic and he easily acquires his destiny. Unlike Mozart and Bach, Knecht does not leave any creative works behind him. It is the later part of Knecht's life that becomes a legend. Whether or not the legend is true is not important. His life is reported in terms of stages and it is in this spirit that the legend is accepted. He becomes Magister Ludi and is the prototype for all those who follow. In this role, he enhances the cultural heritage. When...