‘Shaping History… the symbolism of the urban destruction and creation in the period of World War II and its aftermath’ – a Marlborough History Society lecture by Christopher Moule
16 January @ 7:30 pm
Marlborough History Society is starting its 2025 programme with what promises to be a fascinating lecture by Christopher Moule, Head of History at Marlborough College – “Shaping History: the symbolism of the urban destruction and creation in the period of World War II and its aftermath”.
Combining his knowledge of both History and History of Art, Christopher will talk about the rebuilding of European cities that were destroyed or badly damaged in World War Two. In the war, thousands of towns and cities suffered badly from aerial bombardment, shelling, or other forms of demolition. These included several capital cities, as well as places of immense cultural and historical value. Sometimes, whole communities were displaced and destroyed. The story of the rebuilding, and the choices taken by those responsible, is fascinating: the solutions taken by governments, councils, occupying powers, architects and local people varied to a remarkable extent.
He will range between Coventry and Minsk, with detours to places such as Oradour, Valletta, Rothenburg, Berlin and Warsaw. Many of the controversies that raged at the time of the rebuilding are echoed in the debates in our own times.
at St. Peter’s Church, Marlborough
Guests very welcome, £5 entry
www.marlboroughhistorysociety.co.uk
