Hitler: A Study in Personality and Politics

by William Carr

Examines Hitler's actions, rise to power, and social impact in light of German history and his health, philosophy of life, personality, and cultural aesthetics

200 pages, Hardcover

First published December 31, 1979

About the author

A specialist in the history of modern Germany, William Carr taught at the University of Sheffield from 1952 until his retirement in 1986.

Reviews

[Robert Krenzel · Rating 4 out of 5]

While somewhat dated by now, this book offers fascinating insights into the political, historical, economic, societal, cultural, medical, and psychological factors that explain the rise and fall of Adolf Hitler.

I first read this book as an undergraduate in the 1990s. Perhaps the most revealing and unnerving aspect was re-reading passages I highlighted back then and realizing the similarities between Hitler's supporters and certain elements of modern American society. This was further enhanced by comparing the pathologies of a particular current political candidate with those of Hitler. Yikes!

I sincerely hope history is not repeating itself.

[Tom · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although maybe a bit dated there is still a lot to commend this for. Carr takes a holistic view, looking at the political, military, intellectual and psychological elements of the Nazi leader, delving into the possible sources of his anti Semitism as well as factoring in the economic aspects of Hitler's war machine and the possible psychological sources of his paranoia and lust for power.