The Troubled Legacy of Otto Rahn

This chapter explores the life of Otto Rahn, a scholar who sought to uncover hidden European pagan traditions and whose ideas were co-opted by the Nazi regime, particularly by Himmler. It examines Rahn's tragic journey, from his opposition to the Nazis' actions leading to the Holocaust to his mysterious death, while reflecting on the complexities of his beliefs and their exploitation. Through a deep dive into his writings and ideologies, the chapter highlights the tension between his scholarly pursuits and the dark forces that misappropriated them.