The Condemned Conscience: Reflections on Nazi Soldiers and War Crimes
Since the end of World War II, the question of whether Nazi soldiers felt remorse for their actions has remained a topic of intense debate among historians, scholars, and the general public. While there is a misconception that no one felt bad about their war crimes, this article will explore the evidence and testimonies that suggest a more nuanced understanding of human behavior during that dark period.
Myriad of Feelings
From my research and personal experiences, it is evident that feelings of remorse were not non-existent among Nazi soldiers. Human nature being what it is, there were instances of individuals who experienced profound guilt and moral anguish over the atrocities they were coerced into committing. However, these individuals often faced the dilemma of either admitting to their wrongdoings, which could have led to severe repercussions, or burying the guilt within them.
Psychological Impact on Combatants
The Nazi regime made significant efforts to erase any deep-seated feelings of morality in their soldiers, particularly within the SS. Despite these efforts, many German soldiers could not bring themselves to willingly commit atrocities. As an example, one German officer at Buchenwald sought psychiatric help due to the torment he experienced from the inhumane treatment of prisoners. Similarly, members of the Einsatzgruppen, who were ordered to participate in mass killings, often refused to follow these orders and were relieved of their duties without facing consequences.
Other Instances of Remorse
Some accounts, such as Rudolf H?ss, the twice-commandant of Auschwitz, provide a more explicit case of remorse. Bazin wrote about H?ss's statements made in prison, where he took responsibility for his actions and asked for forgiveness. However, it is important to note that his confession was made after he had been sentenced to death, which may have influenced the authenticity of his statement.
Wall of Silence
While there were instances of remorse, many veterans maintained a wall of silence surrounding their wartime experiences. When asked about their experiences, they often reaffirmed their innocence and the righteousness of their cause. A striking example is when one veteran admitted to nearly confessing a war crime but ultimately claimed that he had done nothing wrong, furthering the societal belief of a collective moral blindness.
Conclusion
The story of Nazi soldiers and their feelings of remorse is a complex one, reflecting the duality of human nature. While some individuals experienced profound guilt and sought redemption, others clung to the notion of their own righteousness. The historical record offers a mix of both perspectives, challenging us to reconsider the blanket assumption that no one felt bad about their actions.