Zivan reviewed Soldaten by Sönke Neitzel
Review of 'Soldaten' on 'Goodreads'
4 stars
An interesting combination of History ans Sociology, this book analyzes transcriptions of conversations between German and Italian POWs during WWII.
The raw material here is unique in its nature, as opposed to the usual fare of apologetic chronicles written after the fact.
Much effort was made to put the recorded conversations into context.
Sometimes the author's interpretation of the conversation is redundant as it is very clear what was said, but in most cases I gained insights.
I do take issue with the conclusion of the book, as it seems to imply that all humans are capable of doing what the Nazis did in the right framework. and implies that other armies provide the same framework.
I do think the Wermacht provided a significantly different framework for its troops regarding the treatment of none combatants and POWs and occupied peoples in general.
While irregular warfare scrambles other armies ability to …
An interesting combination of History ans Sociology, this book analyzes transcriptions of conversations between German and Italian POWs during WWII.
The raw material here is unique in its nature, as opposed to the usual fare of apologetic chronicles written after the fact.
Much effort was made to put the recorded conversations into context.
Sometimes the author's interpretation of the conversation is redundant as it is very clear what was said, but in most cases I gained insights.
I do take issue with the conclusion of the book, as it seems to imply that all humans are capable of doing what the Nazis did in the right framework. and implies that other armies provide the same framework.
I do think the Wermacht provided a significantly different framework for its troops regarding the treatment of none combatants and POWs and occupied peoples in general.
While irregular warfare scrambles other armies ability to distinguish between civilians and combatants it is the nature of that foe that makes this difficult.
Having an ethos of not hurting civilians may not be enough but it helps.
If the ethos is no mercy mixed with heavy racism the result is significantly different.
