Exhibition

The human need for order in the world is met not least by distinguishing between “our own” and “foreign”. Thus many instances of self-perception and interpersonal perception are rooted in long traditions. Since the 19th century perceptions of other races and ethnic groups have become established as general public opinion in the European nation states – and have made a significant contribution to the collective identity of each country and its society. In Germany and Russia national stereotypes crop up again and again in public and private life, in art and culture, in politics and in the sciences. Preconception and reality are often miles apart.

In the 19th century the Germans’ picture of Russia shifted like no other interpersonal perception between the extreme poles of fear and fascination. In the 20th century a negative perception of Russia came to dominate. Images of fear and the concept of an enemy gained increasing importance and led to the war of destruction against the Soviet Union during the period of National Socialism. In contrast Russian society primarily nurtured admiration for and curiosity about Germany for centuries. It was not until the threat and actual experience during the Second World War that the Russian public perceived the Germans as a spectre of terror. The second half of the 20th century was characterised by a slow reduction in confrontation. However positive and negative stereotypes demonstrate their lasting effect, even today.

[ Download exhibition flyer (only in German) ]