Comparing Hitler and Stalin: Certain Cultural Considerations

Author

Phillip W. Weiss, Graduate Center, City University of New YorkFollow

Date of Degree

6-2014

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Program

Liberal Studies

Advisor

David M. Gordon

Subject Categories

European History | Film and Media Studies

Keywords

Film, Germany, Hitler, Soviet Union, Stalin, Totalitarianism

Abstract

There is a great temptation to compare the Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin. This is true for two reasons: first, the careers of both men converged at the same point in history, thus doubling the impact both made and second, because the names Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin have become metaphors for ideologies and crimes that today are reviled. The question then arises: who was worse, Hitler or Stalin? This project shows that there is no viable, credible, definitive, or final answer to this question, and that prevailing attitudes about Hitler and Stalin have become so ingrained in contemporary society as to render any meaningful or useful comparison virtually impossible. Tragically, it might even be impossible to render a final totally objective judgment of their actions. This is the most disturbing element of this work.

Recommended Citation

Weiss, Phillip W., "Comparing Hitler and Stalin: Certain Cultural Considerations" (2014). CUNY Academic Works.
https://academicworks.cuny.edu/gc_etds/303