Readings & Lectures

14.00 - 15.30

Lecture in GERMAN:
Mark Benecke "Hitlers Schädel und Lampenschirme aus Menschenhaut"
("Hitler’s Skull and Lampshades Made of Human Skin")

Forensic biologist Dr. Mark Benecke, commissioned by National Geographic and the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), examined the skulls and teeth of Adolf and Eva Hitler, as well as lampshades allegedly made of plastic, including items recovered from the Buchenwald concentration camp and found in street storage facilities. The investigations proved more complex than anticipated, as only parts of Hitler's remains made their way to Moscow. Similarly, the tissue samples from Buchenwald only revealed their secrets after examination using various methods, including comparing a preserved heart with old photographs and employing a specially developed DNA analysis technique.
-followed by an autograph session-

(This lecture will also be presented in English on Saturday at 13.30 – 15.00)

17.00

Lecture in GERMAN:
Elmar Schenkel "In die Zukunft schauen: Orakel und Wahrsagung"
("Looking into the future: Oracles and fortune-telling")

Humans are the creatures that crave knowledge of the future. When the Mayan gods realized that the humans they had created could see too much and too far, they decided to limit their vision. Since then, humans have needed specialists to know what to do and what lies ahead. Prophetesses, fortune tellers, and astrologers offer their assistance. Bone oracles are consulted, entrails are studied, birds' flight patterns are observed, the stars are observed, and priestesses who enter a trance are consulted. This lecture provides an overview of the methods and goals of future-seeking, from the Chinese I Ching and the oracles of ancient Greece to Nostradamus and the present day. What has this thirst for the future brought us, and where will it lead us? What do the ancient oracles and how do we use them teach us?

Speaker: Elmar Schenkel, Professor Emeritus of English Literature, heads the Leipzig Working Group for Comparative Mythology. His publications include works on Tolkien, alchemy, bicycles, myth and literature, and fantasy/science fiction; he also writes short stories and travelogues (India, Japan, Romania). His most recent publication is: "Nietzsche global. In 80 Übermenschen um die Welt."

Moderation: Constance Timm (Arbeitskreis für Vergleichende Mythologie e.V.)

17.00

Lecture in GERMAN:
"What the Bug! Kurioses aus der Welt der Insekten"
("What the Bug! Curiosities from the world of insects")

Deadly poison and buried corpses: What sounds like the plot of a crime novel plays out daily in the insect world, right before our eyes. But only if you look closely. This presentation sheds light on sometimes hidden life and offers a fascinating glimpse into wondrous ecosystems. The curious world of insects – from the beaver louse to the rat-tailed maggot.

Speaker: Dr. rer. med. Marcus Schwarz, forensic entomologist and author

The lecture is part of the exhibition:
"Insektenwissen. Historische Bücher und Präparate zur Insektenkunde"
("Insect Knowledge. Historical books and specimens on entomology")

The exhibition can be viewed:
Thursday, May 21st to Saturday, May 23rd, 10.00 – 21.00
Sunday, May 24th and Monday, May 25th, 10.00 – 18.00

Insects and books have an ambivalent relationship. While magnificently colored books about insects are among the treasures of a library, feeding tunnels in the books testify that silverfish and beetles are also interested in historical literature.

The Leipzig University Library's exhibition offers fascinating insights into the history of entomology and showcases its valuable collection of historical entomological books. The focus is on entomological literature from the 18th century. In the age of Carl Linnaeus (1707–1778), interest in insects increased dramatically: collecting beetles and butterflies became a veritable trend. The fledgling field of entomology experienced a massive upswing, primarily due to the dissemination of 'insect knowledge' in books.

In addition to the historical insect books of the university library, models and specimens from the Zoological Collection as well as loans from the Geological-Paleontological Collection of the University of Leipzig will be exhibited.

Location: Exhibition room of the Albertina Library.

11.00 – 12.00

Reading in GERMAN
Frank R. "Mein tolltumultricktuarisches Leben als Kobold"
("My amazing multi-talented life as a goblin")

A book for romantics, old-fashioned dreamers, and also for parents and those who want to become parents. In Frank R.'s enchanting novel, a sick father is spurred on by his imaginative child to track down the herb Moly, a life-saving magical plant. An adventurous quest begins, and unfortunately, there's also a pursuer. On top of that, it's about egomaniacs, unpleasant characters with a high prevalence.

The pharmacy museum, complete with magical plants, miracle cures and accessories, can be visited after the reading.

13.30 -15.00

Presentation in ENGLISH:
Mark Benecke "Hitler's skull and lampshades made of human skin"

Forensic biologist Dr. Mark Benecke, commissioned by National Geographic and the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), examined the skulls and teeth of Adolf and Eva Hitler, as well as lampshades allegedly made of plastic, including items recovered from the Buchenwald concentration camp and found in street storage facilities. The investigations proved more complex than anticipated, as only parts of Hitler's remains made their way to Moscow. Similarly, the tissue samples from Buchenwald only revealed their secrets after examination using various methods, including comparing a preserved heart with old photographs and employing a specially developed DNA analysis technique.
-followed by an autograph session-

(This lecture will also be conducted in GERMAN on Friday at 14.00 - 15.30 and Monday at 14.30-16.00)

17.30 – 18.40

Multimedia reading in GERMAN:
The DEPECHE MODE Trilogy – by and with Sascha Lange

Depeche Mode have been one of the most fascinating bands worldwide for more than 40 years. With the books "DEPECHE MODE MONUMENT", "BEHIND THE WALL – Depeche Mode Fan Culture in the GDR" and most recently "DEPECHE MODE LIVE" by Sascha Lange & Dennis Burmeister, three richly illustrated monuments have been erected to them.

An entertaining and nostalgic evening full of stories, pictures and videos from and about Depeche Mode, their fans and that special "Black Swarm" feeling.

Sascha Lange was born in Leipzig in 1971, is an author and holds a doctorate in history, specializing in youth cultures in the 20th century. He lives and works in Leipzig.
Together with Dennis Burmeister, he has written three books about Depeche Mode and their fans, which have been translated into seven languages, and from which he reads at the WGT.

This is part 1 of the reading, covering the period from 1980 to 1986.
Part 2, covering the years 1987 to 2024, will take place on Sunday from 15.30 to 16.40.

15.30 – 16.30

Lecture in GERMAN: DJ Lo-Renz "Erlebnisse mit kuriosen DJ-Wunschlisten"
("Experiences with curious DJ request lists")

DJ Lorenz (Hanover) will present a talk about crazy, wonderful, and unusual music requests – with witty examples, plenty of humor, and surprising moments. He's been collecting the request lists from his Depeche Mode parties for over 20 years. Join in, laugh, be amazed – an experience for all music fans!

16.50 – 18.50

Lecture in GERMAN:
Andreas Auer "Von Totentrompeten und Satanspilz - die düstere Welt der (Gift-) Pilze"
("Of Black Trumpets and Satan's Mushrooms - the dark world of (poisonous) mushrooms")

Fungi are fascinating organisms, and even though our knowledge of them has expanded considerably in recent years, they still pose many mysteries. In this somewhat eerie yet informative lecture, mushroom expert Andreas Auer will take you into the dark world of (poisonous) fungi. He will explain how fungi live, why people most often poison themselves with porcini mushrooms, that there are toxic effects even worse than death – and, in general, why studying fungi is "totally gothic." Enriched with many dark tales from the past and present, he will also show you how to safely enjoy edible mushrooms. Furthermore, he will present extraordinary species with fascinating properties that you have probably never heard of. An exciting journey to living beings that are so different – and yet closer to us humans than, for example, plants.

19.30 – 20.50

Reading in GERMAN: Jürgen W. Müller "Joy Division & The Cure / Post-Punk"

With his musical reading, Jürgen W. Müller presents more than a classic presentation of his books: In a dense combination of words, pictures and audio examples, he takes the audience on a journey through the influential soundscapes of Post Punk and Wave.

The first part is dedicated to the band Joy Division: It tells the band's story, embedded in an overview of this formative era, which was impressively continued by New Order. Exclusive interview excerpts from associates, numerous songs, and accompanying images bring the atmosphere and significance of this time vividly to life.

The second part focuses on The Cure / Wave:
This section, focusing primarily on the formative 80s and 90s, is also rich in audio examples, exclusive anecdotes, and is complemented by an atmospheric slideshow.

16.00

Lecture in GERMAN: Eine (kurze) Geschichte de[r Zauberbücher
("A (short) History of Books of Magic")

What are the most dangerous books in the world? Probably those that change people and their view of the world—that make them strive for higher things or promise the prospect of secret knowledge. Often condemned by the Church, desired by many, but possessed by few, magical texts, and especially grimoires, have rarely been so feared and simultaneously so coveted throughout the centuries. Grimoires exist out of a desire to manifest magical knowledge in physical form. Thoughts about magic are meant to be recorded, particularly with regard to controlling oral tradition, which is prone to error and misinterpretation. Unlike theoretical "occult" literature, grimoires are predominantly practical ritual or instructional texts. They provide instructions on how to summon angels, nature spirits, astral or demonic powers, or how to harness the secret forces of nature.

The lecture will illuminate the history and content of selected examples of this fascinating literary genre.

Lecture by Leonhard Lietz (Düsseldorf), Presentation: Constance Timm (Arbeitskreis für Vergleichende Mythologie e.V.)

18.00

Lecture in GERMAN:
Zwischen Sexualmagie (magia sexualis) und Liebeszauber (magia amoris)
("Between sexual magic (magia sexualis) and love magic (magia amoris)")

Black and white sex magic consciously and purposefully harnesses sexual energy for spiritual and magical objectives, employing various means of coercive and manipulated sexual seduction, submission, and domination. Such dominance, sometimes extending to death, is seen as a close connection between Eros and Thanatos, both considered humanity's greatest obsessions and energies. Sex magicians, through their actions, including black masses, wild orgies, and obscene lovemaking, deliberately defy socially, religiously, and ethically imposed prohibitions, rules of conduct, norms, and taboos. Love spells utilize love potions as well as amulets, fetishes, ceremonies, incantations, and rituals to emotionally win the favor of a desired person.

Love spells are a popular and recurring motif in mythology, art, literature, and culture. Sexual magic and sexual mythology cult practices typically combine sexual acts with magical fertility rites, the worship of gods and mother goddesses, wise women, miracle healers, witches, and warlocks. These practices of sexual magic and love spells will be presented using selected narratives, myths, sagas, legends, as well as cultic acts and ceremonies. These include, among others, solstice celebrations, incantations and rituals, elemental spirits, lustful mermen and nymphs, but also dragons, mountain spirits, and numerous mythical creatures. Contemporary neopagan cult practices, rediscovered ceremonies, and neo-pagan magic and witchcraft (Wicca) will also be mentioned.

Lecture by Dr. Hans-Christian Trepte (Leipzig), Moderation: Constance Timm (Arbeitskreis für Vergleichende Mythologie e.V.)

KULTHAUS VI - Occult science lectures and presentations in the vaulted hall of the Dölitz gatehouse

14.30

Lecture in GERMAN:
Julia Köhler "Abschiede und Lebensfeiern – individuelle Gestaltungen des letzten gemeinsamen Weges"
("Farewells and celebrations of life – individual designs for the last journey together")

The presentation offers a brief overview of the processes and procedures of a funeral home. The main focus will be on the options for arranging personal farewells or memorial services. The presentation will also touch upon the death of children – those who find this sensitive should consider beforehand whether they feel comfortable attending.
Julia Köhler, a native of Leipzig, has been a funeral director for 13 years. She is also a volunteer member of "Wolfsträne e.V.", an association that supports children and young people in their grief after the death of a parent or sibling.

16.00

Concert:
Jim Cosmo & Prince Claas vom Mars "Songs Against Gravity" – the greatest hits of the "Time and Space Society"

Around the Galaxy in 120 Strings – Climb aboard the spaceship of Jim Cosmo & Prince Claas vom Mars, navigated by their voices and the dulcimer. They'll be playing pieces from the "Time and Space Society," featuring dreamy astronauts, murdered roses, and Egyptian princes. After all, who needs gravity?

15.30 – 16.40

Multimedia reading in GERMAN: The DEPECHE MODE Trilogy – by and with Sascha Lange

Depeche Mode have been one of the most fascinating bands worldwide for more than 40 years. With the books "DEPECHE MODE MONUMENT", "BEHIND THE WALL – Depeche Mode Fan Culture in the GDR" and most recently "DEPECHE MODE LIVE" by Sascha Lange & Dennis Burmeister, three richly illustrated monuments have been erected to them.

An entertaining and nostalgic evening full of stories, pictures and videos from and about Depeche Mode, their fans and that special "Black Swarm" feeling.

Sascha Lange was born in Leipzig in 1971, is an author and holds a doctorate in history, specializing in youth cultures in the 20th century. He lives and works in Leipzig.
Together with Dennis Burmeister, he has written three books about Depeche Mode and their fans, which have been translated into seven languages, and from which he reads at the WGT.

This is part 2 of the reading, covering the period from 1987 to 2023.
Part 1, covering the years 1980 to 1986, can be experienced on Saturday from 5:30 pm to 6:40 pm.

12:30 - 14:00

Lecture in GERMAN: DJ Lo-Renz "Erlebnisse als Depeche-Mode-Fan und DJ"
("Experiences as a Depeche Mode fan and DJ")

Lo-Renz recounts how he discovered the magic of Depeche Mode as a fan – from the first concerts, unforgettable encounters, and rituals to the special energy that creates a loyal fan base. This connection to the music and the people who love it forms the starting point of his journey. But his story doesn't end with being a fan: passion grew into an intense hobby, enthusiasm into professional stage experience. DJ Lo-Renz takes the audience behind the DJ booth. He talks about music not only as a consumer but also as a creator. A change of perspective and a look behind the scenes: experiencing it from the outside and creating it from within. About emotion, craft, and the special connection between audience and DJ.

14.40 – 16.10

Lecture in GERMAN:
Andreas Auer "Von Totentrompeten und Satanspilz - die düstere Welt der (Gift-) Pilze"
("Of Black Trumpets and Satan's Mushrooms - the dark world of (poisonous) mushrooms")

Fungi are fascinating organisms, and even though our knowledge of them has expanded considerably in recent years, they still pose many mysteries. In this somewhat eerie yet informative lecture, mushroom expert Andreas Auer will take you into the dark world of (poisonous) fungi. He will explain how fungi live, why people most often poison themselves with porcini mushrooms, that there are toxic effects even worse than death – and, in general, why studying fungi is "totally gothic." Enriched with many dark tales from the past and present, he will also show you how to safely enjoy edible mushrooms. Furthermore, he will present extraordinary species with fascinating properties that you have probably never heard of. An exciting journey to living beings that are so different – and yet closer to us humans than, for example, plants.

16.50 – 18.10

Lecture in GERMAN: Alexander Nym "QBL & POP - Kabbalistische Referenzen in Sub- und Popkultur"
("QBL & POP - Kabbalistic References in Subculture and Pop Culture")

As a secret supreme discipline between religion, mysticism and philosophy, Kabbalah inspired Western esotericism from Tarot to alchemy, before regaining popularity with the revival of occultism in the 19th century. In this multimedia lecture, cultural studies scholar Alexander Nym searches for Kabbalistic elements across pop and scene music, from David Bowie to Current 93.

14.30

Philosophical Salon held in GERMAN:
"Warum uns das Dunkle berührt - philosophisch-ästhetische Annäherungen an das Düstere"
("Why Darkness Touches Us – Philosophical and Aesthetic Approaches to the Gloomy")

What touches us about darkness often eludes quick comprehension. The ubiquitous conception of beauty is characterized by brightness and purity, symmetry and order. Could it be said that, amidst all this negative beauty, upon closer inspection and intuition, realms of experiencing one's own beauty open up? Darkness need not necessarily appear as the counterpart of beauty, but rather as its hidden dimension, whose potential is waiting to be discovered.
How does a darker aesthetic shape our perception of the world and our capacity for understanding? Do related emotional landscapes, such as those of melancholy, sensitize our senses?

This year, we want to engage in conversation and philosophical discussions with you again!

Dr. Jirko Krauß, Leipzig, Johanna Kosch, Stuttgart, Tom Karnagel, Leipzig

14.00 - 16.00

Reading in GERMAN: Christian von Aster "DIE SCHWARZE KUNST 4.0 - eine Lesung finsterer Tintengespinste"
("THE BLACK ART 4.0 - a reading of dark ink webs")

To delight those with a penchant for darker moods, Christian von Aster – striving to reconcile different genres of literature – not only reads from "Batman bei den Buddenbrooks", but also presents all sorts of dark poems, anecdotes and oddities.

Location: New lecture hall

KULTHAUS V - Lectures and presentations on esoteric science in the vaulted hall of the Dölitz gatehouse

14.00

Lecture in GERMAN: Bernd Thomas Möckel "Sächsische Freimaurerei und ihre Rituale"
("Saxon Freemasonry and its rituals")

The lecture will provide a brief overview of the use of rituals in the lodges of Saxony, particularly in the Ore Mountains, in order to deepen the understanding of the so-called royal art and its procedures. The archivist, originally from Annaberg-Buchholz, has been studying the history of Freemasonry—especially in the Ore Mountains—since 2007 and is therefore intimately familiar with its diverse history. Since February 2026, the speaker has been the Master of the Lodge "Friedrich zur ernsten Arbeit" in Jena.

15.30

Lecture in GERMAN: Janosch Moser "Das okkulte Erbe der Psychologie"
("The Occult Legacy of Psychology")

This lecture provides an overview of methods and perspectives originally derived from occultism that have found their way into modern psychology, and especially psychotherapy. By way of example, phenomena such as possession and the methods for their healing (keyword "exorcism") will be translated into modern psychological terminology to illustrate the possibility of combining both approaches.

14.30 -16.00

Lecture in GERMAN:
Mark Benecke "Hitlers Schädel und Lampenschirme aus Menschenhaut"
("Hitler’s Skull and Lampshades Made of Human Skin")

Forensic biologist Dr. Mark Benecke, commissioned by National Geographic and the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB), examined the skulls and teeth of Adolf and Eva Hitler, as well as lampshades allegedly made of plastic, including items recovered from the Buchenwald concentration camp and found in street storage facilities. The investigations proved more complex than anticipated, as only parts of Hitler's remains made their way to Moscow. Similarly, the tissue samples from Buchenwald only revealed their secrets after examination using various methods, including comparing a preserved heart with old photographs and employing a specially developed DNA analysis technique.
-followed by an autograph session-

(This lecture will also be presented in English on Saturday at 13.30 – 15.00)

"Gothic Identity" – Lectures in English

11.00 – 11.40

Lecture in ENGLISH:
Emma Baird "Just a Phase? The enduring global networks of Goth Identity"

This lecture presents research findings that inform contemporary perspectives on the complex phenomenon of international Goth identity. Emergent from this research are elements that characterise engagement in the social and aesthetic online networks of Goth and support the view that global connectedness is fundamental to the endurance of contemporary gothic identities.

11.50 – 12.20

Lecture in ENGLISH:
Anna Suranova "Light and illumination in Gothic architecture"

In Gothic architecture, light transforms from a simple source of safety into a powerful artistic tool that creates a dynamic interplay of illumination and shadow, revealing both divine beauty and unsettling mystery. This lecture will be presented by Anna Suranova, an engineer and specialist in light. Moving between history, architecture, and technical insight, the lecture explores the unique qualities of light in Gothic buildings, where light itself becomes a form of storytelling

12.30 – 13.00

Lecture in ENGLISH:
Jana Komaritsa "Where Cats Walk Between Worlds. Cats in Dark Culture"

From ancient omens to modern internet icons, cats have long occupied a mysterious space between light and shadow. This lecture by cat art specialist Jana Komaritsa, owner of cat-themed art space WonderCat in the Netherlands, explores the role of cats in darker cultural and artistic narratives, from symbols of witchcraft and superstition to their presence in gothic art, folklore, and occult traditions. This talk invites you to look into the shadows, where cats have always stood at the threshold between worlds.

13.10 – 13.40

Lecture in ENGLISH:
Yann Faussurier "Redefining music: perception, form, and instrumentality in electronic sound"

Electronic music producer Yann Faussurier (Iszoloscope) will explore how experimental sound reshapes our understanding and perception of music. He will place a special focus on experimental, noise, and industrial music, examining how these genres challenge conventional ideas of composition and aesthetics with new and often radical approaches to sound creation and perception.

13.50 – 14.20

Lecture in ENGLISH:
Devi Letalis "Bloodlines & Footnotes: A Historian‘s Approach to Vampire Fiction"

Behind the pen name Devi Letalis is a historian, artist and costume designer whose work brings a depth of authenticity to dark fantasy and vampire literature. This talk explores how historical research, material culture, and narrative imagination intertwine to shape the richly immersive worlds of her Inferno's Forbidden Archives series.

14.30 – 15.10

Lecture in ENGLISH:
Alexander Pehlemann & Xavier Kruth "Dark Sounds From Behind The Iron Curtain"

Alexander Pehlemann and Xavier Kruth have been studying the music of communist times in Central and Eastern Europe for years. As a build-up to the following final talk on East German post punk, they will give you an overview of the music scene in different countries of the Warsaw Pact bloc with samples of the music. The countries that will be discussed are Poland, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria and the USSR. Plus a bit of the specialcase block-free Yugoslavia on the vibrating top.

15.20 – 16.20

Lecture and Discussion in GERMAN:
"United States of Melancholia: Post-Punk in der DDR"

Join Henryk Gericke and Maik Reichenbach for a compelling lecture on post-punk in the GDR. As former members of East German punk bands and compilers of the seminal ‘Too Much Future’ compilation, they share firsthand insights into underground culture, state control, and artistic resistance in its development from punk to post punk as covered in the new compilation ‘United States of Melancholia’. Joined by Torsten Füchsel of darkwave band Rosengarten and expert Alexander Pehlemann, the talk offers a rich, multifaceted perspective.

15.20 – 16.20

With Henryk Gericke (Edition Tapetopia), Maik Reichenbach (Ex-L'Attentat), Torsten Füchsel (Rosengarten, B. Crown, Kashmir, Herbst in Peking and many others)
Moderation: Alexander Pehlemann (Zonic, Edition Iron Curtain Radio)

Following the lecture, there is an opportunity to walk together to the nearby Parkschloss and experience three bands that fit the theme: Freunde der italienischen Oper, Sandow and Rosengarten, all with roots in the GDR underground, will perform there from 17.20.

14.00 – 15.00 (Doors open at 13.00)

Reading in GERMAN:
Oswald Henke – Provokant und auf den Punkt gebracht: "Menschenfrei Entartet"
(Provocative and to the point: "Degenerate Without Humanity")

Oswald Henke quotes neologisms and neologisms, naturally discussing further chapters of his educational guide – a deeply cynical pedagogy of an unfree spirit.
A literary excursion without literature, but full of bittersweet moments. Laughter and tears are permitted. However, boisterous behavior is forbidden, and clapping along will be punished with a substantial blood debt. Free of fairytale princes and toy soldiers, but full of reflections on our own mortality and the finiteness of all existence.

18.00 – 19.30 (Doors open at 17.30)

Reading in GERMAN:
Markus Heitz & Jessica Iser – "Geschichten aus der Dunkelheit - Horror, Fantasy, Kink."
("Stories from the Darkness - Horror, Fantasy, Kink.")

Markus Heitz: A man who wears black and is a veteran goth, ironic and sarcastic, and always working on his next project. A full-time storyteller, born in 1971. He has written more than 80 books: primarily fantasy, horror, and space fiction. However, he's hopeless at math and as a craftsman. After all, you can't be good at everything.

Jessica Iser, born in 1991 to German-Spanish parents, has been writing fantasy stories since childhood. She is most often found in the darker, more romantic corners of the genre, ranging from dark fantasy to horror. Her debut novel, "Deathbound," was nominated for the 2022 Seraph Fantasy Award in the "Best Independent Title" category. She has published numerous works in anthologies.

11.00 – 12.00

Reading in GERMAN:
"Die wahre Geschichte von der unendlichen Liebe"
("The True Story of Endless Love")

Solomon's key is good for such a half-hellish brood - so it says in the book (and in Goethe).
Innocently enough, with a pressed plant, Solomon's seal (also known as white seal), the enigmatic story unfolds. A mysterious stack of letters is discovered in the attic of an old house. For the finder, a young man, reading them proves to be a clue to his great love ... or a trap. A novel in the romantic style, read by Frank R. and Steffen Hirn as a duo. Incidentally, King Solomon can also be found in the Pharmacy Museum.

The Saxon Pharmacy Museum, complete with magical plants, miracle cures and accessories, can be visited after the reading.