welt.de
Father and Son": A Subtle Resistance During Nazi Germany
Erich Ohser's popular comic strip "Vater und Sohn" ("Father and Son") ran in the Berliner Illustrirte Zeitung from 1934 to 1937, subtly subverting Nazi family ideals with its depiction of a loving, unconventional single-father family, despite Ohser's own persecution and eventual suicide.
- What was the significance of "Father and Son" in the context of Nazi Germany's family propaganda?
- Father and Son", a popular German comic series by Erich Ohser, ran weekly in the Berliner Illustrirte Zeitung from 1934-1937, captivating millions. The comics, featuring a clumsy father and his son, offered a unique portrayal of family life, contrasting sharply with Nazi-era ideals of family structure. Ohser, previously banned for anti-Nazi caricatures, continued his work pseudonymously until his 1944 arrest and subsequent suicide.
- How did Erich Ohser's personal experiences influence the creation and reception of "Father and Son"?
- The comic's success stemmed from its simple yet expressive style, focusing on humor and minimal text, making it relatable across age groups and political contexts. Its depiction of a warm, non-authoritarian single-father family was particularly striking during a period dominated by pro-Nazi family propaganda and patriarchal norms. Ohser's work, though seemingly innocuous, served as a subtle form of resistance against the regime.
- What does the recent feminist adaptation of "Father and Son" suggest about the comic's enduring appeal and its relevance to contemporary discussions on family and gender roles?
- Father and Son's" enduring popularity is reflected in its continued republication and recent feminist adaptation, "Mother and Daughter". The series' timeless appeal lies in its universal themes of family, humor, and gentle rebellion, highlighting its cultural significance beyond its historical context. Its legacy underscores the power of subtle resistance in times of oppression, and the importance of non-traditional family models.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Ohser and his work positively, emphasizing its humor and enduring appeal. The headline and opening sentence create a cheerful tone, setting the stage for a predominantly celebratory portrayal of the comics and their creator. This framing might downplay potential criticisms or complexities.
Language Bias
The article uses largely positive and appreciative language to describe the comics, such as "unverwechselbar" (unmistakable) and "erheiterte" (amused). While this is appropriate to some extent, it could be balanced with more neutral or even critical descriptions to provide a more objective assessment. The description of the father's body as "puddingförmig" (pudding-like) could be seen as subtly derogatory, though it's likely intended humorously.
Bias by Omission
The article omits discussion of potential negative aspects of the "Vater und Sohn" comics, such as any problematic elements within the humor or potential unintentional reinforcement of societal norms. It also doesn't explore the full extent of Ohser's political views or activities beyond his anti-Nazi cartoons and his later arrest. The article focuses primarily on the positive reception and enduring legacy of the work, potentially neglecting counter-arguments or critical perspectives.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplistic view of Ohser's role during the Nazi era, presenting him as either a victim of the regime or a creator of harmless humor. It doesn't fully explore the complexities of his situation or acknowledge that his actions may have been viewed differently by contemporaries.
Gender Bias
The article's focus on the "Vater und Sohn" dynamic inherently centers on a male-dominated relationship. The feminist reimagining, "Mutter und Tochter," is mentioned but not analyzed in depth. This omission could be interpreted as a tacit endorsement of the original's gender representation.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights Erich Ohser's career, including his censorship under the Nazi regime and his eventual arrest and suicide. This illustrates the suppression of free expression and the dangers of authoritarian rule, directly impacting the promotion of peace, justice, and strong institutions.