HOW THE BROTHERS GRIMM RESURRECTED GERMAN IDENTITY

Cinemavixion Review

Simon Schama delves into the fascinating genesis of modern nationalism, tracing its romantic roots to a profound re-imagining of nature and homeland, intertwined with the 'discovery' of native folklore. The exploration highlights the potent influence of Robert Burns' Scottish poetry and music, a cultural bulwark against the encroaching English influence. Schama further illuminates how Napoleon's invasion of German lands in the early 19th century unexpectedly catalyzed a group of German Romantics. Their response was a fervent 'campaign of national belonging,' a movement that, while seeking cultural preservation, ultimately harbored darker, unforeseen consequences. This documentary offers a compelling look at the complex interplay between cultural identity, political upheaval, and the enduring power of storytelling.