Hitler: Speeches and Proclamations, 1932-1945--The Chronicle of a Dictatorship (Vol. 1, 1932-1934)

Rating:
Summary: Speeches are a bust, the editing is superb
Review: Max Domarus intitially published this book in Germany in the early 60's and this is the first attempt at translating this massive work. The results are a mixed bag. This set is obviously intended only for people with a serious interest in Hitler. The price alone with preclude any casual readers from investing in these volumes.

The books contain many of Hitler's speeches and these oftentimes make boring reading. Hitler was a superlative orator, but without him delivering the words, they invariably fall flat. It is scarcely edifying to read Hitler's speeches and that is what the bulk of this set is all about. However, Domarus' includes his own remarks and editing, all of which are superb. He includes little vignettes about Hitler's entourage, daily habits and private life, and his insights are both informative and accurate.

So if you're seriously into this period of history and have a strong willingness to shell out big bucks for some superb editing, then this is your baby.