Nationaler Mythos oder historische Trauer? der Streit um ein zentrales "Holocaust-Mahnmal" für die Berliner Republik

Analyzes various aspects of the debate on the Holocaust memorial for European Jewry in Berlin, the erection of which was finally approved by the government in June 1999, after an 11-year-long controversy. Examines architectural drafts which demonstrate plainly the difficulties of the project. Discusses cultural and historical perspectives, questioning the significance of commemoration and mourning for the victims of Nazism after so many years have passed. Calls for a historical approach in order to deal with the Holocaust in all its complexity. Emphasizes, also, the importance of the media in the transmission and interpretation of historical events.