This book offers a survey of the encounter between the Third Reich and European Jewry. Pointing out the difficulties historians face in interpreting the ever-expanding documentary record, it includes treatment of the role of non-Germans in the Holocaust, consideration of the much-debated nexus between the Holocaust and modernity, and discussion on how 'the Holocaust' developed as a distinct historical topic.
Fully updated, this new third edition incorporates the latest scholarly findings with expanded treatment of gendered aspects of the Holocaust, the Holocaust’s world historical contexts, the long-term history of Jewish-Christian relations, and thinking about the Holocaust’s contemporary relevance, as well as additional documents reflecting recent archival discoveries. Offering a concise narration that appeals to both the intellect and the emotions, the book enables students to gain a real understanding of the events of this catastrophic time.
Including a useful selection of original documents (many never before anthologised in English), a chronology, glossary, and 'who’s who', David Engel’s book will be welcomed by anyone trying to get to grips with this complex and far-reaching subject.
Part 1: Analysis
1. Studying the Holocaust
2. The Jews
3. Hitler, Nazis, Germans, and Jews
4. 133-41: A Twisted Road?
5. Responding to Persecution
6. The Transition to Killing
7. Responding to Murder
8. Humanity, Modernity, and the Holocaust
Part 2: Documents
Biography
David Engel is Greenberg Professor of Holocaust Studies, Professor of Hebrew and Judaic Studies, and Professor of History at New York University, USA. A member of the Academic Committee of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, he is the author of seven books and more than 100 articles on aspects of the Holocaust and modern Jewish history.
