- Duration
- 55 minutes
- Product Type
- Lecture
- Venues
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- Champs-Elysées
- Place de la Concorde
Lecture Details
Photos & Highlights
- Presented by the same world-class experts as our walking tours, Context Lectures highlight must-see attractions, reveal hidden landmarks, and explore the best things to do during your trip so you don’t miss a thing.
Lecture Description
The Nazi Occupation of Paris is one of the most studied yet misunderstood chapters in French history. Described as "the dark years" by much of the post-war generation, the story of the City of Light under Nazi rule oscillates between fact and fiction, nationalist and collaborationist myths. From Gaullist and communist resistance members, to collaborators, to Americans, the differing narratives of how and why the Nazis were able to hold onto Paris for over 1,500 days continues to perplex and fascinate. In this talk, we will debunk myths, discover crucial characters, and learn why and how the occupation came about.
Meet Your Expert
Samuél is a published novelist and musician who has lived in Paris since 2008. He holds an M.A. in European Society from University College London & an MFA in creative writing from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Samuél teaches creative writing at the Sorbonne, hosts the Paris Writers' Salon with a local literary legend John Baxter, and is also a singer/songwriter. Samuél's first novel, "Slim and The Beast" (Inkshares, 2015) is a coming of age story set in North Carolina. His second novel, "The Requisitions" (Kingdom Anywhere, 2024) is a historical metafiction about history, memory, and the Nazi Occupation of Poland.
Led by Samuél Lopez-Barrantes, a novelist with a master's degree in Holocaust Studies, this interdisciplinary lecture focuses on the historical facts and various narratives that continue to define the history of France under Nazi rule. Divided into three parts (Occupation / Resistance / Liberation), we will learn about the ways in which Parisian society first acclimated, then resisted, and ultimately rejected their occupiers during the last week of the occupation. From Charles de Gaulle's speeches to the diary of a young Jewish student, Helen Berr, to the German General Von Choltitz's diplomatic dealings with the Americans in the final days of occupation, this introductory lecture provides insight into the crucial events that defined the Nazi Occupation of Paris (1940-1944), offering both an overview as well as timely reflections on the complicated grey zone of ethics surrounding bystanders, resistance, and outright collaboration.
How do I access the lecture?
Once you complete your purchase, you will receive an email with a link to stream the lecture on the Context Travel website. You can also access your past purchases anytime under My Orders. Please ensure you are logged into your account to open the streaming page.
Is closed captioning (i.e. subtitles) available?
Yes! All of our lectures have the option to turn on closed captioning should you have difficulty hearing the expert.
How long does each event last?
Our recorded lectures typically run for 60 minutes.
How can I share this lecture with friends or family?
You are welcome to watch together with friends or family but each person viewing on their own device will need to purchase the lecture individually.
How long does my access to the lecture last?
Once you purchase a lecture, you are welcome to view it as many times as you like and your access does not expire.
What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Sales for recorded lectures are final upon purchase. Please contact us at digital@contexttravel.com if you have any questions or concerns about your purchase.
Can I purchase a gift card for a friend who is traveling?
Absolutely! Gift cards can be purchased here. Gift cards are good for 365 days from the date of purchase.
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15 Reviews
Reviews can only be left by Context customers after they have completed a tour. For more information about our reviews, please see our FAQ.
That was fantastic. Samuel’s thoughtful presentation about the Nazi Occupation was well prepared and presented. I look forward to doing the Context tour in September, better informed than I was before I watched and listened to this talk.
Connie
Aug 8, 2024
very informative and well structured on a delicate subject
Thank you
Anita
Jul 26, 2024
It was a very interesting lecture. I learnt a lot about the occupation. I am coming to Paris in September and doing the Nazi Occupation tour of Paris. Really looking forward to learning more.
Josephine
Jul 25, 2024
