Peter Weiss Books

Peter Weiss' _The Investigation_ is a stark docu-drama. About ninety percent of the text actually came straight from texts from the 1964 Frankfurt war crimes trial, however, nearly all identifying details have been removed. It's very rare that names are used. Characters are simply noted as "Judge" , "counsel for the defense", "witness", etc. This has an odd effect on the reader, making one feel disconnected. It's difficult to form an identification with any character, so one is forced to focus on words and activities. Some believe this was intended to force readers to step back from the horrors of the Holocaust and try to investigate the real reasons behind Auschwitz. The effect is often disturbing and I've found that many people have to put the book down to step away from it after reading for too long. It's also disturbing to read about the words and auctions of the nazis being tried. Each one repeatedly insists that he was never involved in the killings he's accused of. At one point, I had to put the book down and said, "Apparently no one killed anyone at Auschwitz." I found it highly ironic and sick that each of these officers insisted he was never involved in killing, yet so many died at Auschwitz.

The text is difficult to get through at times, but it's definately a very different piece about the Holocaust worth looking into.

I am sure I will rate the book higher than 1 star when I actually receive the 2nd volume- it has been over one month and I still don't have it. Can you help?
Jeff Husband