Bismarck
Otto von Bismarck (1815-1898) was Germany’s most prominent statesman and the architect of the German Empire. As such he founded a nation that today is the third largest economy in the world and the linchpin of the European Union. We know how the German Empire died in 1918 and we also know the man who
brought about this country’s infamous end and destruction in 1945.
But many do not know how this nation was born. The creation of this economically and politically powerful country is closely aligned with its creator Prince Otto von Bismarck. Why should we care about this man today? In a time of political polarization and distrust in our government it might be interesting to examine the skills and strategies, the triumphs and failures of a man whose name was known all over the European continent and beyond, both revered and despised.
This lecture examines the life and personality of this powerful man as well as the complexity of the social, intellectual and political conditions of 19th century Europe which laid the foundation for his rise and reign.
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Dr. G. Kyra von Brokoph studied English and American Literature at the university in Munich, Theater at Boston University and received a Ph.D. in German literature and Philosophy from the University of California, Davis. She taught German literature and culture at St. Lawrence University, a private college in upstate NY, where she held an endowed chair. During her professional life she published seven books, contributed several chapters in literary historiesand innumerable articles on German and Austrian literature. She lectured at conferences and universities on literature and film all over the world. Since her retirement she has been writing poetry which is published in her latest book.
