Schauderschatteringen

Schauderschatteringen is a fictional concept that appears in the work of German author W.G. Sebald. It does not refer to a real phenomenon or established scientific term. Within Sebald's narratives, Schauderschatteringen are described as unsettling, almost spectral tremors or shivers that afflict his characters. These are not merely physical sensations but seem to be deeply connected to memory, trauma, and the weight of history. They manifest as a profound unease, a sense of something ancient and disturbing stirring within.

The term itself, a compound of German words, evokes a sense of dread and quivering. It suggests an internal disturbance that is both chilling and pervasive. Sebald uses this concept to explore the lingering impact of historical events, particularly the Holocaust, on individuals and subsequent generations. Schauderschatteringen can be seen as a metaphorical expression of this inherited trauma, a psychic residue that surfaces unexpectedly. The experience is often involuntary and disorienting, highlighting the difficulty of escaping the past. Characters experiencing Schauderschatteringen may find themselves haunted by fragmented memories or a sense of existential dread, blurring the lines between subjective experience and objective reality. The concept contributes to Sebald's characteristic melancholic and reflective tone, emphasizing the fragility of human consciousness and the persistent presence of historical suffering.