Hitler: Diagnosis of a Destructive Prophet

by Fritz Redlich

This book provides the first analysis of Hitler's life by a trained MD and practicing psychiatrist. Focusing especially on his medical and mental history, Redlich shows us precisely how Hitler's physical and mental health influenced his beliefs and behavior. Drawing upon medical records of Hitler's World War I injuries and subsequent illnesses, combined with a penetrating exploration of Hitler's writings, Redlich offers new insight into Hitler's vision of himself as a prophetic leader. The final chapter offers a psychiatric portrait of Hitler, and it is here that Redlich's analysis reveals the highly combustible mixture of denial, projection, sexual repression, paranoid delusion, and narcissistic rage that transformed Hitler from an aimless, friendless, and vaguely resentful youth into the most destructive force of the twentieth century. Complete with illustrations, critical medical reports by Hitler's personal physicians, and a medical glossary, this book brings to light the darkest recesses of one of the world's most impenetrable minds.

Genres: Biography, History, Nonfiction, World War II, Psychology, Holocaust, European History

466 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 3, 1998

Reviews

[Brandi · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting. There were new facts I didn't know. But there was also a lot of pointless information that dragged everything.
Plus I'm salty at the TERRIBLE book I read that referenced this book. That HORRIBLE book diagnosed Hitler as a schizophrenic and cited this book as it's source. Anyone who reads this book should know that's not accurate. I just read this meh book because of a lie. I feel cheated.
Anyway, it was worth the read. Probably wouldn't recommend it or read it again. But I'm glad I read it.

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the most thorough biography I've ever read. The last sentence says it all: Hitler was evil.