Germans, Jews and the Holocaust

  Czech Republic

• Prague: 
Prague

  Germany

• Berlin: 
Berlin

  Poland

Krakow

Term: Summer 
Dates: May 17-June 7, 2009

Description: The goal of this course is to deepen students' knowledge and understanding of the both hopeful and tragic relationship between Germans and Jews in the 20th century from the remarkable achievements and recognition of German Jews in the early part of the century, through the flowering of "Weimar culture" in the 1920's, to the persecution during the Nazi era culminating in the Holocaust during World War II and continuing into the remarkable revival of Jewish life and culture after 1990. The focus will be on the history of the Jewish community in Berlin including visits to both historic, memorial and contemporary sites. The historical context of this relationship will lead to a better understanding of the attempt by the Nazi state to physically destroy all of European Jewry during World War II. The course raises challenging interpretive questions regarding the origins of the Holocaust, Hitler's responsibility and the role of "ordinary Germans." By traveling to Berlin and Cracow, students will gain a direct knowledge and feeling for these events.

Highlights: Berlin: The history of Berlin's Jewish community is both exuberant and tragic. Towering intellectual, creative and entrepreneurial figures feature prominently in Berlin life from Alfred Döblin to Walther Rathenau and Albert Einstein. But the question that looms over the fate of Berlin's Jews in the 20th Century is how Berlin became the capitol of an SS-state that was determined to destroy Jewish life and ultimately the Jews in Germany and Europe.

Cracow: This beautiful medieval city in southern Poland is known for its favorite son, Pope John Paul II, for the university of Copernicus and, tragically, for Auschwitz, which lies just outside the city. Life in the Jewish quarter (Kasimierz) is now overtaken by urban renovation, but is still alive with traditional klezmer music and Jewish restaurants.

Prague: Rich in culture and beautifully renovated, Prague is one of the most popular cities to visit in Europe today. When reflecting on the events of World War II, Prague expands this study abroad tour by providing an in-depth understanding the Holocaust.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: 2,600

Not included: Airfare to Berlin, lunches and dinners, books, personal expenses.

Experience Required: no

This Program is open to American Participants.

Participants Travel Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Transcript
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

The University of Arizona's Mission Statement: In support of the University of Arizona's mission to "prepare and inspire students for their future roles in the world as thinkers, learners, leaders and responsible citizens," the Office of Study Abroad and Student Exchange (SASE) offers international education opportunities to U.S. students through faculty-led programs, student exchanges, and individually arranged programs.

Year Founded: 1990