Around 12,000 years ago, a human carved a distinctive design onto a mammoth bone. It is the oldest known Swastika, which for centuries was held in various degrees of symbolism and esteem on several continents and by countless cultures. The Swastika (from Sanskrit, meaning well-being) has symbolized peace and joy in India for thousands of years. Prior to 1920, the Swastika was a popular design in the West on greeting cards, soft drinks, buildings and sports uniforms. More than a few Native American tribes wove the Swastika into blankets, baskets and painted it on pottery. This class will explore the fantastical history and journey taken by this benevolent and organic design and its ignoble use in Nazi Germany.
Course Code
506195