History 428H - Nazi Germany

The study of Nazi Germany forces historians to look more closely at a larger period of time and pose (and answer) important questions about a wide variety of topics relating to the Weimar Republic (1918-1933), the Nazi Era (1933-1939) and the Second World War (1939-1945). The events during these periods are of epic proportions - strikes, assassinations, hyperinflation, street fighting - and that is just in the years between the two world wars! These events, however, must be placed within the context of larger trends. We'll be considering topics ranging from avant-garde artists to genocide. However, as a unifying theme for the course, we will consider the impact of modernity: the rapid reorientation of German life to the demands of industrial society. Readings will consist of primary and secondary sources as well as historical and contemporary films. Students will be asked to write several short papers as well as a longer historiographical essay.

Open to Seniors, Juniors & Sophomores only. Recommended: HISTORY 101 or 323