THE WEIMAR ERA: BERLIN’S GOLDEN AGE – 10K

Description

Between the World Wars, Germany was ruled by one of its most liberal governments, known as the Weimar Republic (1918-1933). During this period of history, Berlin acquired its reputation, for the first time in modern history, as a locale of free expression. While life in this period was bracketed by political unrest, economic instability, and the repercussions of war; it was also characterized by a thriving social and artistic scene, which embraced the experimental and bold. Exemplified in shows like Babylon Berlin, the fascinating dualities of the Weimar Era are brought to light. During this tour, we’ll explore Berlin from government to leisure and art– Welcome to the Golden 20s!

Starting at the Red Town Hall, we’ll begin our tour with a discussion of the political and administrative overhaul in Germany following World War I which allowed for the freedoms enjoyed by Berliners in the early 20^th century. Then, we will make our way around the city center. As we run from Alexander Platz to the Brandenburg Gate, we’ll see myriad examples of life and leisure in the city. And, we will bring our tour to a close in Bebelplatz, a chronological and symbolic end to the short-lived Weimar era as the infamous site of the Nazi book burnings in 1933.

During this time, Germany embraced the experiemental. The silent film industry was taking off, and Germany competed in the international market, led by icons such as the actress Marlene Dietrich and director Fritz Lang. Additionally, German Expressionism became a notable contribution to the art and cinema. This phenomenal history is memorialized in movie theaters built during the time and still standing, like the Babylon Theater, and displayed at the Sony Center museum known as the Deutsche Kinemathek. Berliners did not shy away from the new. From wild dance parties at establishments like Clӓrchens Ballhaus, socially critical operas such as Bertolt Brecht’s Three Penny Opera, new objectivity in Bauhaus architecture, and exploration of sexuality; they were determined to live a life unbound by traditional expectations.

Let’s take a run through history and get to know life in Weimar Germany together!