The conflict between a passive, intellectual way of life and an active, sensual one, between a vita contemplativa and a vita activa, led Hesse to a profound crisis. Denis Herold seeks to uncover the mechanisms of their processing in the novels "Steppenwolf" and "Narcissus and Goldmund." Should one dedicate their life to study, theorizing, intellectualism, and self-discipline, living in safety but without significant experiences? Or should one prefer adventure, passion, sensuality, full of experiences, but at the risk of body and soul? Is there even a desirable, a worthwhile middle path?.