GERM 282 Nazi Visual Culture

The rise and fall of National Socialism is one of the most intensively studied topics in European history. Over six decades after its collapse Nazi Germany continues to fascinate the general public and with good reason. Although the fascist state lasted only for twelve years it started history's most destructive war while committing crimes of unprecedented proportions. For the most part it did so with the acquiescence of the German public. This class will investigate the rise of National Socialism as a political social and cultural phenomenon. The central focus will be on the decisive role of film and the visual arts as most popular means of mass manipulation.