The history of the East Berlin Academy of Arts (1950--1993) is a hallmark for quarrels between mind and power. The protagonists on behalf of the Academy were renowned writers, directors, actors, visual artists and musicians. Leading members of the Socialist Party and government, especially top officials from the cultural department and less kown members of the state security service were opposed to this faction.How much say did the regime allow the members of the Acadamy? How did the united artist elite use their political freedom? Matthias Braun is the first to examine extensively the possible influence of the SED and MfS on the Academy of Arts.