Hitler wanted architecture to be utilitarian. The Nazis began construction after they seized power. It seems sort of ridiculous all of the projects they undertook. They built the Olympic Stadium, the Tempelhof airport, and the Germania project. The Germania project was the plan for the new capital, with new ceremonial buildings and space for political events. To accomplish this feat, Hitler used Albert Speer to put forth Hitler’s architectural plans. Speer had the job of redesigning Berlin. Part of this structure included a Circus that would serve as the central place for entertainment in the city.
It is truly monumental the amount of tasks that the Nazis took on. From the war, to social experiments, and construction projects, it was much they tried to accomplish. It seems out of place in my mind that amidst all the hardships, the Nazis found it suitable to build a circus.
I don’t even like to make this connection, but I couldn’t help but think of the Walt Disney corporation after reading about this expansion plan and this post. While there are NO similarities between Walt Disney and what happened with the Nazis during this period, the building plans and constant restructuring do seem similar. While Disney is not directly involved in the crises around the world right now (the earthquake in Nepal, the many troubles throughout the middle east, or even the riots in Baltimore), they do not use their power to contribute positively to these situations that are nothing but negative. Their main concern is what the next attraction that they’re building is or the next franchise that they are going to launch. While it is up to debate whether or not it is their responsibility, as one of the most powerful corporations in the world, to be concerned with these situations, they seem o be easily distracted. They are always expanding their already unfathomable conglomerate in the forms of parks, attractions and movies. It is truly shocking in this case as well just how many projects are going on, starting up, and being completed at one time.
I know that this is a bit of a loose parallel, but my Disney obsession takes over sometimes.