This comment was written by HAVC 135B on 2 Sep 2016.

HAVC 135B : German Art 1905-1945

Is it possible to divorce form from content? What about in politically volatile circumstances? In other words, can a Nazi-era cultural artifact be interpreted purely for its aesthetics? Why or why not?

I feel that form and and content is a cohesive whole; in other words, content could be reflected from the form. The film "Triumph of the Will" is just a case in point. By depicting the dominating role and leadership of Hitler, the historical culture can be presented in a obvious way. Also, a Nazi-era cultural artifact cannot be interpreted purely for its aesthetics because it authentically covers a lot of aspects with the filmic technique-camera angles, including the historical affairs, Germany's unification and solidarity.

- Summer 2016

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