Reluctant Meister: How Germany's Past is Shaping Its European Future

by Stephen Green

The Euro crisis has served as a stark reminder of the fundamental importance of Germany to the larger European project. But the image of Germany as the dominant power in Europe is at odds with much of its recent history. Reluctant Meister is a wide-ranging study of Germany from the Holy Roman Empire through the Second and Third Reichs, and it asks not only how such a mature and developed culture could have descended into the barbarism of Nazism but how it then rebuilt itself within a generation to become an economic powerhouse. Perhaps most important, Stephen Green examines to what extent Germany will come to dominate its relationship with its neighbors in the European Union, and what that will mean.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Germany, Economics

352 pages, Hardcover

First published November 15, 2014

Reviews

[MissSophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting view on Germany, its history and its role in the EU and today in general. It's nice to have an outsider looking at all the things that went horribly wrong, but also at what has been achieved until then and from that point on. After the election I probably needed a read like this to fully (re-)appreciate this country, its achievements, its diverse culture and its identity/identities.
...and now I'm going to listen to 'Ode an die Freude', because it perfectly fits the feeling this book leaves me with!:)

[مروان البلوشي · Rating 4 out of 5]

رحلة سلسة داخل التاريخ الألماني، مع التركيز على كيفية تعامل ألمانيا مع الآثار النفسية والثقافية المدمرة للنظام النازي والحرب العالمية الثانية، وأهمية ذلك لأوروبا والعالم الآن

[Ellie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is an analysis of the development of culture and identity in Germany over the last 2000 years, from Germanic tribes to the European Union today. While Green does make some interesting points, especially with regards to the effects of Protestantism and the Napoleonic wars on the German people's psyche, I did not enjoy reading this book because I felt that it was extremely disorganized and often rambling. If I didn't have to read it for a class I wouldn't have finished it.

[Andrés Álvarez Fernández · Rating 4 out of 5]

Germany´s 2000-year journey towards unity, dominance and redemption as seen through the eyes of a Briton. A well-balanced, enjoyable reading particularly interesting to digest in light of the outcome of the recent federal elections last 24 September 2017.

[William Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A deep dive into the philosophy and history which has resulted in the German nation of the 21st century.

[Rick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am glad I read this book, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. The book wasn't quite what I expected. The historical sections of the book were more of an intellectual/cultural history of Germany than anything else (which is not where my interests lay). A strong background in German history would have made the book more enjoyable. I don't think this book is really for a popular audience. Still, as I said, I am glad I read it; the book did offer some good insights into Germany's past and future.

[David Donnelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

An new examination of German literature, music, and history in order to understand what Germany has become after Stande Null. Not as thorough as the recent "A Mighty Fortress", but certainly more insightful.

[Johan Rehnstrom · Rating 4 out of 5]

On page 170. I am greatful for receiving this book as a gift as the content of the book provides much needed insight into the German culture and history. The German culture is so much more than the horrible and poignant events in the second world War.

[Vafa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recommend this book , specially to my Russian friends, it raises very valid questions about our identity, as Europeans but also as world citizens

[Brad H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book. But long paragraphs and chapters make it difficult to read in places.

[Suzanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great narrative and analysis of how Germany's history and culture led it to where it is today.