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Author(s)

John L. Ward

CarolAdler Zsolnay

The case looks at Thomas Mann's fiction novel Buddenbrooks and traces the family business trajectory of the family at the center of the novel. Many family business issues are raised, including succession, intermingling of family and business money, supporting adult offspring, and competition.

Is the saying "from shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves" inevitable in a multi-generation family business?

Date Published: 01/01/2005
Discipline: Family Business
Key Concepts: Family Business, Succession, Succession Planning, Intermingling Family and Business Money, Supporting Adult Offspring, Competition
Citations: Ward, John L., CarolAdler Zsolnay. Thomas Mann's Buddenbrooks: The Decline of a Family: Great German Novel or Great Family Business Story?. 7-404-750 (KEL284).