Thomas Mann's four-volume novel about Joseph is a pinnacle work of the 20th century. Published between 1933 and 1943, this grand biblical narrative stood in stark opposition to Nazi ideology from the very beginning and is now regarded as a significant monument of exile. As part of the comprehensive annotated Frankfurt edition, this monumental work is being critically edited for the first time. The commentary documents the extensive archival material—manuscripts, notes, materials—and reveals the wide array of cultural-historical sources that served as a foundation and inspiration for the author. A particular focus is placed on the reception of the work, which spans over twenty years. This commentary volume includes the history of its creation, textual status, source situation, and reception history of the entire tetralogy, as well as the commentary on 'The Stories of Jacob' and 'The Young Joseph'.