Summary
Malbork Castle, a symbol of the Teutonic Order's medieval power, became central to German historical narratives in the 19th and 20th centuries. Research reveals that interpretations of the 'German East'—a contested concept referring to territories historically associated with German settlement or influence—varied significantly depending on political contexts. The study demonstrates how Malbork Castle, rediscovered around 1800, was strategically used in nationalistic discourses, reflecting shifting boundaries and ideologies. By analyzing historical policies and cultural representations, the research highlights the fluidity of geographical and identity constructs in German history.
Citation
Daniel Stienen. (2023). Malbork Castle, the Knights of the Teutonic Order and the "German East" in the 19th and 20th Centuries. Herder-Institut Für Historische Ostmitteleuropaforschung - Institut Der Leibniz-Gemeinschaft. https://doi.org/10.25355/0XZ1-3E79