The Press and the Public Image

Newspapers, broadcasts and staged receptions turn the crisis into competing public narratives of peace, strength and political triumph.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Times at the Ritz

Reading Hitler’s Speech Headlines and Claims Legat studies the report of Hitler’s Berlin speech while waiting for Pamela. Reading for Threat His underlining identifies promises of peace that become central to the political debate.

The Radio Broadcast

A Voice to the Empire Public Address Chamberlain speaks to Britain and listeners abroad from Downing Street. A Message with Two Audiences His restrained appeal is aimed both at fearful civilians and at Hitler, who is imagined listening from the shadows.

The Commons Acclaims Him

Relief in Parliament News Reaches the House Chamberlain announces that Hitler has invited the leaders to Munich. A Roar of Approval Members rise in relief, momentarily treating the conference as the rescue of peace.

Munich Crowds Cheer

A Welcome Staged The Motorcade Chamberlain’s arrival in Munich is accompanied by crowds, music and official spectacle. An Unusual Reception The enthusiasm complicates Hitler’s own image and becomes a point of comparison in the press.

The Return Speech

The Signed Paper Displayed Chamberlain Addresses the Crowd He thanks the public and reads the Anglo-German declaration aloud. Hope Becomes a Headline The dramatic image of the paper becomes a public symbol whose promise exceeds its enforceable power.

27 September 1938, before lunch

27 September 1938, 8 p.m.

28 September 1938, afternoon

29 September 1938, midday

30 September 1938, evening