The Magic Mountain Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 5, continued Summary

Chapter 5, continued Summary

Hans is by now aware of affairs among several of the patients, who use the space extending beyond the connecting balconies to visit each other. Similarly, many patients are now aware of Hans' infatuation, since he hardly hides his feelings. His blushes and staring are a regular object of amusement in the dining-hall.

While waiting for Sunday mail, Hans and Settembrini fall into an open argument. Settembrini triumphantly reveals that he belongs to the International League for the Organization of Progress, which works for human self-perfection. He is contributing to an international encyclopedia this group is publishing on the causes and cures of human suffering. Settembrini again warns Hans against adopting "Asiatic" ideas about time and suffering, and urges Hans, despite his diagnosis, to leave the Berghof so he can live as a civilized European in the flatlands. Hans accuses Settembrini of offering hypocritical advice, since Settembrini himself avoided...
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