Intrigue of Kershaw

I found the Hitler Myth interesting because it summed up everything we have been working on and more specifically how Hitler rose to power. Kershaw's view of the importance of the charismatic Hitler was the same in both of his books. Hitler's slow progression from the drummer into the chosen leader was an interesting depiction by Kershaw because he portrays Hitler's leadership epiphany as hilarious. One day Hitler is the drummer then he wakes up with the calling from g-d to be the chosen leader which will save Germany.
The Hitler Myth was very focused on the 'heroic leadership' and cult aspects of the Nazi's rise. There seems to be a lot of disillusionment and confusion among the people. Meaning the people didn't know what was going on and were completely delusional. For example there was idealized trench experience as well as romantic views of democratic government.
On a different note, I found it comical the way Kershaw frames the discussion about leadership. That leadership was a destiny and that it is a gift from g-d to be selected as a leader. I think this is especially interesting because it is like some of the great political theorists who believe that there are only a select few who are born to leader (Plato is one such theorist).
One final point I wanted to touch on was Hitler's relationship with Hes. He was extremely devoted and dedicated to Hitler and NSDAP. Hes is even referenced on page 506 in "Hitler " book because he was an increasingly powerful figure. He was involved in the massacre that was referenced at the end of the chapter we read in about "Securing Total Power."