World War II in Europe: History, Experience, Memory

World War II was the defining event of the twentieth century. This course will focus on the military, political, social and cultural dimensions of the war in Europe and the USSR. Topics and themes include: Hitler’s war aims; the uses of propaganda; civilian mobilization and "total" war; the Grand Alliance; racial policies and genocide; and the collaboration and resistance of civilians under Nazi occupation. The course will conclude with a survey of the ways in which the war has been--and continues to be--commemorated and debated in Britain, Russia, Germany, France and Austria. No prerequisites.