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Degenerate art was both a term of condemnation applied by the Nazis to various modernist works of art and also formed the name of an exhibit of many such works. As part of Nazi antisemitic propaganda, such art was often branded as "Jewish" even though only a tiny percentage of it was produced by actual Jews. The general idea was that the art of movements such as Dada, Cubism, Expressionism, Fauvism, Surrealism and even the today seemingly tame and almost decorative Impressionism, exemplified and propagated sickness of both mind and body. The ideal art of the Nazis was more classical in form, emphasizing such themes as order, strength, glory and objectivity, as opposed to the more chaotic, questioning and subjective themes that often inform works that were labeled as degenerate. It is easy to see how a Fascist regime would prefer the former to the latter in terms of consolidating power and gaining popular backing for oppressing minorities of all stripe. In addition to having their works confiscated, artists deemed degenerate or Jewish were harassed, fired from teaching positions, prevented from exhibiting their art and sometimes even disallowed from continuing their work. As such, many hid their works and work in progress, fled or even committed suicide. In this article you will learn some resources to help you to find out more details about so-called degenerate art.
eHow Member: Michael Motta
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