Activity 5: Extracts and Discussion
Below are examples of ways in which the Nazis limited freedom of expression. Read these through in your group then discuss the points that follow:
Order from the National Chamber of Fine Arts forbidding Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, a well-known artist, from painting:
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“In connection with the task, entrusted to me by the Fuhrer, of eradicating the works of degenerate art from our museums, no fewer than 608 paintings of yours had to be seized. Many of these paintings were displayed at the exhibits of Degenerate Art in Munich, Dortmund and Berlin… I hereby expel you from the National Chamber of Fine Arts and forbid you any activity – professional or amateur – in the field of graphic arts.” |
Many intellectuals, such as Albert Einstein were driven out of Germany. Others, such as the philosopher Martin Heidegger, stayed and adapted. Heidegger became closely associated with Nazi ideas and politics. In May 1933, whilst Rector at the University of Freiburg, he said:
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“The much praised ‘academic freedom’ shall be driven out of Germany’s universities.” |
Werner Best, the deputy chief of the Gestapo, gave these instructions to his men: “Any attempt to gain recognition for, or even uphold different ideas will be ruthlessly dealt with as the symptoms of an illness which threatens the healthy unity of the state. To discover the enemies of the state, watch them and render them harmless at the right moment is the duty of a political police.”
From the Dachau concentration camp regulations, 1933: “Tolerance means weakness. In the light of this conception, punishment will be mercilessly handed out whenever the interest of the fatherland warrants it. Anyone who discusses politics, carries on controversial talks and meetings, forms cliques, loiters around with others will be hanged.”
“…there are German restrictions and bans. Nothing can be printed, taught or learnt… We are cut off from the world and from books. It is not permitted to open libraries… We are not allowed to print anything, neither books nor newspapers; schools, academic institutions are not permitted to open. There are no cinemas, radio, no contact with world culture.”
From the diary of Stanislav Rozycki, a visitor to the Warsaw Ghetto:
For Discussion
- How did removing the right to freedom of speech and expression contribute to the Nazis achieving their aims?
- In what ways is this topic linked to the Nazi’s emphasis on controlling the media? See Section 5 – Media’s role in society
- To what extent do you think the Nazis wanted to control individual’s minds? Do you think this is possible? When answering this consider the activities in Section 5 on Propaganda and Children
- George Orwell’s book '1984' is a satire about fascism. He coined the term the ‘thought police’. What do you think this means in the context of Nazi Germany? What thoughts did the Nazis try to police and control?
- Can an individual resist such control and if so, how?
