The Power of Emotions
A History of Germany from 1900 to the Present

Explores the emotional worlds of the German people to tell a very different story of the 20th century.

Ute Frevert (Author)

9781009376839, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 17 August 2023

376 pages
23.6 x 15.6 x 2.4 cm, 0.65 kg

'… although initially disorienting to read, this panoramic history of emotions is ultimately reorienting in its subject matter and its approach. It brings to light the emotional dimension of the past, illuminating people, places, events, and experiences that have generally remained in the shadows or only been dimly discernible.' Thomas A. Kohut, The Journal of Modern History

Emotions make history and have their own history. Exploring the emotional worlds of the German people, this book tells a very different story of the twentieth century. Ute Frevert reveals how emotions have shaped and influenced not only individuals but entire societies. Politicians use emotions, and institutions frame them, while social movements work with and through them. Ute Frevert's engaging analysis of twenty essential and powerful emotions – including anger, grief, hate, love, pride, shame and trust – explores how emotions coloured major events and developments from the German Empire to the Federal Republic until this very day. Emotions also have a history, illustrated by the changing forms, meanings and atmosphere of various emotions in twentieth-century Germany: for example, hate was a driving force behind National Socialism but is out of place in a democracy. Around 1900, people associated practices with love or nostalgia that do not resonate with us today. Showcasing why Germans were enthusiastic about the war in 1914 and proud of their national football team in 2006, this book highlights the historical power of emotions as much as their own historicity.

Introduction: the power of emotions in German history
Anger
Belonging
Curiosity
Disgust
Empathy
Envy
Fear
Fondness
Grief
Hate
Honour
Hope
Humility
Joy
Love
Nostalgia
Pride
Shame
Solidarity
Trust.

Subject Areas: European history [HBJD]