The Von Trapp Family and the Complexities of WW2 Austria
The Von Trapp Family and the Complexities of WW2 Austria
The life of the famous Von Trapp family during the World War II era in Austria was peppered with moral dilemmas and personal sacrifices. Unlike many of their compatriots who embraced or tolerated the Nazi regime, the Von Trapps, headed by Captain Georg von Trapp, decided to leave Austria rather than compromise their principles. This move, taken despite the dangers and challenges, is a testament to their dedication to preserving their family's values and traditions.
Beliefs and Ideals
Kurt Waldheim and the Austrian Nationalism Paradox: When reflecting on the moral and ethical choices of the time, it's vital to juxtapose them with historical figures like Kurt Waldheim, an Austrian UN Secretary-General and former top SS officer. Waldheim's history, particularly his role during the Nazi occupation of Greece, is a stark contrast to the Von Trapp family's path. Waldheim was elected President of Austria by the public despite his involvement with the SS, highlighting the leniency and lack of accountability in post-war Austria.
The Von Trapp Family's Stand: Unlike many Austrians who saw the Nazis as liberators or felt pressured into submitting, the von Trapp family was resolute in their opposition. Captain Georg von Trapp, a naval officer from Croatia, did not support the Nazi regime and refused to fly their flag. Maria, a devout Christian, and her children, who were older than their film counterparts, were also opposed to the regime. They saw the aggression and oppression of the Nazis and faced the stark choice of either joining the Nazis or leaving their country.
Leaving Austria: A Strategic Decision
Motivations for Escape: The decision to leave Austria was not made out of fear alone. It was a complex blend of moral convictions, personal integrity, and a desire to preserve their spiritual and cultural heritage. The Von Trapps decided to save their "spiritual wealth" rather than their material possessions, recognizing the intrinsic value of their family and cultural traditions.
The Escape Plan: Instead of a clandestine escape to Switzerland, the family took advantage of their already established fame as performers and were booked to sing in the United States. They made the journey by train, leaving through Italy. This approach allowed them to travel safely and without alerting the authorities. It was a calculated move, balancing the safety of their family with the preservation of their reputation and income.
Public Perception of the "Sound of Music"
Tour Guide Perspectives: To get a firsthand account of how the Von Trapp family's departure was perceived, we embarked on a Danube Riverboat tour. Our Austrian tour guides provided insightful commentary. Many Austrians, particularly those in the younger generations, have a mixed view of the film "The Sound of Music." They see it as a romanticized version of history that trivializes the Nazi occupation and its impact on Austria and its people.
Incongruity of the "Sound of Music" Film Plot: The film portrays the family's escape route as taking them into Switzerland, despite the fact that they likely left through Germany. The actual route was more straightforward, involving a train traveling from Austria to Italy. This inaccuracy, among others, highlights the challenges in portraying historical events accurately for a broader audience.
Conclusion
The story of the Von Trapp family during WW2 Austria is one of moral fortitude and personal sacrifice. Their decision to leave rather than submit to the Nazi regime in Austria was driven by a strong sense of duty to their family, their cultural heritage, and their spiritual beliefs. Their escape through Italy, rather than a more covert route to Switzerland, underscores the complexity of the time and the choices individuals faced during occupied Europe.
The debate over the film "The Sound of Music" and its portrayal of the von Trapp family's journey serves as a reminder of how historical events can be interpreted and misinterpreted. It encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of the historical context and to remember the real voices and stories behind the cinematic depictions.