Bertolt Brecht

Profession: Poet and Playwright

Biography: One of the most influential playwrights of the 20th century, whose work and idea were deeply affected by two world wars and new revolutionary ideologies.

Brecht was born in Germany, and became increasingly influenced by Socialist and Communist ideas. His work usually has a political or moral message. Brecht wanted to move away from naturalistic theatre, advocating for an 'alienation effect', a distancing of the audience from the characters on stage so they could make more rational judgements. His most famous works include "The Threepenny Opera" (1928), the anti-war play "Mother Courage and Her Children" (1941) and "The Good Person of Szechwan" (1943).

Brecht's work was banned in Germany in the 1930s so he went into exile in Denmark, later moving to California. He later moved back to Europe after attracting the attention of the House Un-American Activities Committee. He settled in East Berlin in 1949 where he ran the Berliner Ensemble theater company.

Born: February 10, 1898
Birthplace: Augsburg, Bavaria, German Empire

Generation: Lost Generation
Star Sign: Aquarius

Died: August 14, 1956 (aged 58)
Cause of Death: Heart attack