Read https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_%22Hitler_Myth%22

In the book, Kershaw explores a concept he calls the “Hitler Myth” that describes two key points in Nazi ideology that depict Adolf Hitler as a demagogue figure and as a mighty defender.[1][2] In the demagogue aspect Hitler is presented as a figure that embodies and shapes the German people, giving him a mandate to rule. As a defender, he is depicted as defending Germany against its enemies and redressing the imbalance imposed by the Treaty of Versailles. These were essential elements of propaganda of the time and helped to ‘plaster over’ early cracks in the Nazi Regime’s facade, though by no means de-fusing all tensions or secret opposition in Germany at that time.

The “Hitler Myth” – Wikipedia

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I have listened to Ian Kershaw talking about his work via The Rest Is History podcast, but had never actually read any of his books. I found The Hitler Myth in Audible and dived in.

I am not exactly sure what I expected from the book, most likely an examination of myth surrounding Hitler. However, what I got was a biography of ‘Adolf Hitler’ the socially constructed myth. This is captured through various snippets from the time.

It is an interesting exercise to map an idea or the image separate to the historical person. The book serves as an intriguing investigation of charismatic leadership beyond the idea of inherent genius. It felt like a following the political worm across somebodies whole life.

The question raised with this approach is whether a focus on myth over an unremarkable man underestimates Hitler’s actual agency and personality.

The post 📚 The “Hitler Myth” – Image and Reality in the Third Reich (Ian Kershaw) first appeared on Read Write Collect.