Bismark, Otto von
Bismark was the first chancellor of the new German Empire, in office 1871 to 1890. He was anti-Catholic and anti-Socialist, and is considered to be successful with his foreign policy efforts: allying with Russia and Austria to isolate France, with whom Germany had just fought. The man in The Informer is confused as to whether he ought to teach Bismarck in a positive or negative light.
Einstein, Albert
Arguably the most influential scientist of the twentieth century. His is considered to be the father of modern physics. Einstein was a Jew, and therefore when Hitler came to power, he did not return to Germany from his visit to the United States. He discovered the anti-Jewish legislation would have barred him from working at a university, his works were some of the books that the Nazis were burning, and that their was a bounty on his head. Einstein is one example of the many Jewish intellectuals that Germany lost as a result of the Nazi party.
Goebbels, Joseph
Goebbels was the head of the Ministry of Propaganda in Nazi Germany. He was particularly responsible for anti-Semitic actions, like Kristallnacht, and his work included oral and printed propaganda in favour of the Nazi party.
Himmler, Heinrich
Leader of the SS under Hitler. He was essentially Hitler's right hand man, given responsibilty for carrying out the Final Solution, which led to the execution of millions. "Himmler's apparatus," which is referenced in the poem preceding "The Spy," most likely means the SS, which was in charge of the concentration camps.
Hitler, Adolf
Hitler was the leader of the Nazi party, and he became Chancellor of Germany in 1933, leading the party to victory. His radical ideas and antisemitism led to not only the Second World War, but to the "Final Solution to the Jewish Problem," which resulted in the Holocaust. Hitler was an energetic leader with oratory skill and he gained fanatical support in Germany from many.
Judas Iscariot
Judas Iscariot was one of Jesus Christ's 12 apostles. He betrayed Jesus to the Roman officials for money, leading to the arrest and death of Christ. His name is synonymous with "traitor," which is why the Man in scene 10 tells his wife she has born him a Judas
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Ley, Dr. Robert
Dr. Ley was responsible for the Voluntary Labour Service, as well as Strength Through Joy. His position was the head of the German Labour Front (see Voluntary Labour Service).
Napoleon Bonaparte
The Emperor of France (and later the King of Italy) from 1804-1814. He was known for his great leadership, particularly in battle, and the Napoleonic wars are named for him. Hitler is often compared to Napoleon, especially after his attempt to invade the Soviet Union.