Teaching the Holocaust as Contemporary and Contextualized Lesson

Hartmut Heep 
(The Pennsylvania State University, USA)

Abstract: The purpose of this article is to contextualize the lessons of the Holocaust by suggesting effective teaching strategies. Without diminishing the suffering and magnitude of the Holocaust, its lessons need to be carried to a broader audience. But how can a non-Jewish audience not only empathize, but also understand? First, by studying the Holocaust, we are able to apply the mechanisms to other genocides. Second, by incorporating Jewish life and traditions into the psychology of the Nazis, we are beginning to see how millions of Jews were tricked. Finally, by applying the principles of discrimination to contemporary situations, we see the effectiveness of voting redistricting, jury selection, and marriage (un-) equality.

Effective teaching engages the student. The challenge is to develop teaching strategies without losing sight of the Holocaust. Key element will be the integration of Jewish customs, holidays, humor, and thought into the historical curriculum. This article offers a pedagogic road map, including best practice, teaching the Holocaust as a contextualized and contemporary lesson to a college aged, non-Jewish learner.

Key words: Jewish studies, Holocaust studies, history, German history