Warlords
Under scrutiny
Superstition and belief
Hitler |
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Hitler has often been associated with the revival of Teutonic pagan mythology, seeking justification for his idea of a German 'master race' in ancient traditions and beliefs. Not for nothing was his favourite composer Wagner, who explored these themes in his music. During the war, Hitler made remarks such as 'Christianity is an invention of sick brains' and 'The best thing is to let Christianity die a natural death.' But although he persecuted some Christians who opposed him, in general he avoided outright conflict and, in particular, he reached a modus vivendi with the Catholic Church, which was sympathetic to fascism in opposition to 'godless' Communism. And Hitler certainly liked to see himself as doing God's work. In Mein Kampf, he wrote: 'Hence today I believe that I am acting in accordance with the will of the Almighty Creator: by defending myself against the Jew, I am fighting for the work of the Lord.'
