This study rests on an examination of certain retrospective narrative episodes in selected works of Adalbert Stifter (1805- 1868), an Austrian writer . It is an attempt to explain the author's frequent use of the Ruckblick technique, a salient feature of his prose. The events, ideas and problems portrayed in each of these episodes are first treated in relation to the main themes of the particular work and then viewed against the background of certain events and experiences in Stifter's life . / Thesis / Master of Arts (MA)