Includes bibliographical references (pages 249-273) and index.
Contents:
Introduction : "us" versus "them" -- The rise of religious anti-Semitism : the foundation of myths and legends about the Jews -- The rise of "modern" anti-Semitism and war -- Hitler's rise to power and the radicalization of anti-Semitic policies -- Turning points -- Resettlements, deportations, and ghettos -- Einsatzgruppen, executions, and "evacuations" to the East -- The final solution.
Summary:
"A source-rich historical survey of the Holocaust which pays particular attention to the role played by anti-Semitic traditions and language in the genocide"-- Provided by publisher. "Anti-Semitism and the Holocaust surveys the history of the Holocaust whilst demonstrating the pivotal importance of the historical tradition of anti-Semitism and the power of discriminatory language in relation to the Nazi-led persecution of the Jews. The book examines varieties of anti-Semitism that have existed throughout history, from religious anti-Semitism in the ancient Roman Empire to the racial anti-Semitism of political anti-Semites in Germany and Austria in the late 19th century. Beth A. Griech-Polelle analyzes the tropes, imagery, legends, myths and stereotypes about Jews that have surfaced at these various points in time. Anti-Semitism and the Holocaust considers how this language helped to engender an innate distrust, dislike and even hatred of the Jews in 20th-century Europe. She explores the shattering impact of the First World War and the rise of Weimar Germany, Hitler's rhetoric and the first phase of Nazi anti-Semitism before illustrating how ghettos, SS Einsatzgruppen killing squads, death camps and death marches were used to drive this anti-Semitic feeling towards genocide. With a wealth of primary source material, including primary source excerpt boxes, a thorough engagement with significant Holocaust scholarship and numerous illustrations, reading lists and a glossary to provide further support, this is a vital book for any student of the Holocaust keen to know more about the language of hate which fuelled it."-- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.