This diploma thesis focuses on the personality, life and work of German author Helga Königsdorf and the analysis of selected prosaic works. The aim of the first part is to provide a well-arranged and comprehensive set of biographical information about this author with an emphasis on her literary career, work and socio-political context. The second part is devoted to the study of selected prosaic texts with an emphasis on providing the detailed analysis of female characters. The aim of this part is to provide an overview of topics and standpoints related to the status of women in the society at that time. The analysed female characters deal with topics such as women's position in science at that time or problems in partner, family or professional relationships related to women's emancipation. The conclusion of the thesis offers a brief summary and comparison of differences and similarities considering the personalities, opinions and priorities of these female characters. KEY WORDS German literature, GDR literature, Helga Königsdorf, literary analysis, female characters' analysis