Helden und Märtyrer : der Warschauer Ghettoaufstand in der Erinnerung

Examines how the Warsaw ghetto uprising in April 1943, which represents Jewish heroism, has been perceived in historic memory. Postwar reception of the revolt created an epos which has been adopted for particular interests, which may vary and even be opposing. Clarifies the relationship between an epic narrative and its instrumentalization and symbolic significance. Distinguishes between Zionist, Polish, and anti-fascist approaches. Discusses heroes and martyrs, focusing on the decision of those who stayed in the ghetto until the end although death was certain. They had the choice between a humiliating death or revolt. Discusses, also, reactions to the revolt in postwar Germany, where during the war the uprising was not reported in the press; it was mentioned only 40 years later by German officials. In the early postwar period the revolt was often presented as a military action, and not as a Jewish reaction to the Nazi annihilation policy. Includes bibliographical references (pages 140-167). 168 pages ; 24 cm.