Hedwig und der Garten (S02/E05)
Summary
This episode of NS-CLIQUEN examines Hedwig Höss, wife of Auschwitz commandant Rudolf Höss, challenging the myth of her passive role. Host Janine Funke and historian Dr. Stefan Hörtler discuss how Hedwig actively supported the Nazi ideology, utilized forced labor for her household, and profited from the camp system. The discussion highlights her deep involvement in the atrocities and her post-war efforts to secure benefits while evading accountability.
Topics discussed
Intro: Hedwig Höss and the film The Zone of Interest
Introduction of historian Stefan Hördler
Hedwig's early life and the Artam movement
Meeting Rudolf Höss in prison and their marriage
NS ideology: Blood, Soil, and family policy
Rudolf Höss's career rise and fabricated biography
Life in the SS settlement at Auschwitz
Hedwig's active role and Himmler's visit
The garden, luxury, and departure from Auschwitz
Flight in 1945 and post-war life in Ravensbrück
The widow's pension application and Waffen-SS debate
Hedwig's lack of prosecution and historical legacy
Outro and credits
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