The Rape of Europa is a surprisingly moving, effective, and informative documentary.  Based on the book by Lynn H. Nicholas, the film explores how the Nazi agenda included not just wiping out certain “sub-human” groups such as the Slavs, Poles, and Jews, but also eradicating their history by destroying their works of art and architecture.  At the same time, the Nazis had a systematic program designed to steal and acquire (by means both legal and illegal) the great works of art owned by private collectors and some state galleries. 

Both Hitler and Goering had massive personal art collections, although Hitler’s was based more on what he found appropriate for the regime, and Goering’s was based instead on what he thought was valuable.  The Rape of Europa details that these works of art were a major area of consideration for the Nazis and Hitler, to the point where lists of coveted items were cataloged prior to invasions so special units would know what to look for.  And the Nazis did not limit themselves to mere paintings and sculpture; furniture, silver, and countless personal items were included in the dual theft/destruction program.

Some of the most moving and interesting stories were details of Jewish art dealers or art supporters whose descendants are still fighting to have stolen items return to them.  The details of the evacuation of rare works of art from The Louvre and galleries in St. Petersburg are monumental in scope.  The film even discusses the problems the allies faced when bombing during the later stages of the war, trying to decide when a building was of such historical significance that they should refrain from shelling it even when that might mean the loss of more lives (Monte Cassino being the most famous example).  And there are interviews with members of the special U.S. units charged with the protecting and restoration of notable works.

While watching this movie, it is hard to reconcile that a group of people could be so monstrous in their genocide, yet still hold such an appreciation for art.  And it reminds you that the goal was not simply to kill entire races of people, but to destroy their legacy, in effect erasing all records of their existence.  Even now, 60 years after the war ended, the scenes where some Torah decorative tips were returned to the family which donated them to a synagogue decades earlier brings tears to your eyes.  Try to see this film, in the theater or on DVD.  It’s worth your time.