Bachelorarbeit Bachelorstudium Violine RA 033 116

ABSTRACT: This thesis examines Nazism displayed in the controversial musical The Producers by Mel Brooks in attempt to better understand this form of expression in music. Having in mind how Nazism is not a very popular theme, this thesis will also give attention to different productions to see and understand the significance that this musical has on its audience. Nazism has never been shown in such a humorous and clever manner before in any other musical of its time; however, The Producers is best appreciated when the background of its creator is understood. The motivations for this thesis are: to explore Brooks’ Jewish background, to understand his unique perception on this sensitive topic, then to look at the musicals evolution into The Producers movies. The most compelling evidence of Brooks' brilliance is best demonstrated in his musical number titled Springtime for Hitler, which is a musical within a musical, where Nazism is represented. Another significant point of this thesis will examine the term double coding which describes the nostalgic and comical way Nazism can be interpreted. Finally, I will analyze songs with Nazi topics, with the help of a songbook, and I will put this in connection with Broadway and the Jewish people. Through this thesis the readers will be able to see the topic better and to understand the musical approach to Nazism.

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