History of the Holocaust (349-0-20)

Instructors

Benjamin Frommer
847/491-2877
Harris Hall Room 206

Meeting Info

University Hall 102: Mon, Wed 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

This course examines the Holocaust of European Jews from its origins through its aftermath in the context of Nazi Germany's murderous campaigns against other groups of victims, including disabled persons, sexual minorities, Roma, and Slavs. We will read first-hand accounts and analyze primary documents written by victims and perpetrators as we seek to understand the causes, course, and consequences of the genocidal policies of Germany and its Axis allies. From Vichy France in the West to the occupied Soviet territories in the East, the persecution, expropriation, and murder of millions necessitated the participation of countless civilians and state officials. With a special focus on Eastern Europe, where the greatest number of Jews lived and nearly all of the murdered died, we will explore questions of local complicity, the motives of perpetrators and of those who sought to impede them, and the responses of the continent's Jews and other victims to the onslaught. The course will conclude with postwar efforts to punish the Holocaust's perpetrators, to commemorate its victims, and to deny that genocide was even committed.

Learning Objectives

The course introduces students to an integrated history of the Holocaust that examines the interrelated persecution and genocide of European Jews and other victim groups by the Nazis and their Axis allies. We will read and learn to analyze a variety of first-hand accounts and primary documents written by victims and perpetrators. Students will seek to understand the causes and consequences of radical ideology and genocidal war. Through discussion and written assignments, the course aims to teach students to read, argue, and write effectively based on judicious use of primary and secondary sources.

Evaluation Method

Section participation (25%), Papers (40%), Final Exam (35%)

Class Materials (Required)

Bergen, Doris. War and Genocide: A Concise History of the Holocaust, 3rd edition. Lanham, MD: Rowman and Littlefield, 2016.

Levi, Primo. Survival in Auschwitz. NY: Touchstone, 1996.

Tec, Nechama. Dry Tears: The Story of a Lost Childhood. NY: Oxford UP, 1984.

Class Notes

Concentration: European

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Distro Area
SDG Peace & Justice

Associated Classes

DIS - University Hall 312: Fri 10:00AM - 10:50AM

DIS - Locy Hall 110: Fri 11:00AM - 11:50AM

DIS - NO DATA: NO DATA