The Russia Complex

With his prizewinning book ‘The Russia Complex’, Gerd Koenen wrote the definitive work on the peculiar pull which Germany and Russia exerted upon each other in the 20^th century. The interplay between superiority and inferiority complexes, fascination and phobia, gave rise to deadly totalitarian regimes but also to brilliant cultural achievements. Today, this unusual special relationship has once again become the subject of public debate and criticism. Koenen’s book about the Germans and their relationship with the ‘East’ explains the historical context. A new afterword addresses the subject in the light of what has happened since 24 February 2022.

*‘In his brilliantly written study, Koenen shows how German intellectuals and idealogues engaged with Russian culture and politics in the first half of the 20^th century.’ - ZEIT Geschichte

*‘Seldom has the ambivalence in Germany’s relationship with Russia been so starkly illustrated.’ - Heinrich August Winkler, Süddeutsche Zeitung

*Gerd Koenen sheds light on the ambivalent relationship between Germany and Russia

*With an up-to-date afterword on the situation in Ukraine

*‘Koenen’s Russia Complex sets itself apart with its in-depth research, illuminating photographic material and sparkling style.’ - Micha Brumlik, Neue Zürcher Zeitung

*The Germans and the East – a new edition of this definitive work