Hermann Hesse (1877–1962) was a German–Swiss poet, novelist and painter known for his introspective books including Steppenwolf, Siddhartha, Narcissus and Goldmund, Demian and The Glass Bead Game (Magister Ludi) among others. Briefly studying at a seminary, theological themes are often woven into his writing. Profoundly affected by the mysticism of Eastern thought including Buddhism and Hinduism, Hesse's books and essays reveal a deep spiritual influence that has captured the imagination of generations of readers. In 1946, Hesse received the Nobel Prize in Literature celebrating his entire body of work which offered readers a profound exploration of the human psyche.