The Messels at War: German-Jewish Responses to Twentieth-Century Conflict

In a special online talk to mark Remembrance Day, John Hilary will look back at the contrasting experiences of German-Jewish immigrants in Britain during the two world wars. Told through the lives of the celebrated Messel family of Nymans, of which John is a member, the presentation will examine the waves of violence directed towards naturalised Germans in Britain during the First World War and the personal anguish they faced as they were called upon to disown their heritage. It will also explore the treatment of German Jews who came to Britain in the 1930s, granted refuge in their flight from Nazi persecution but then rounded up and interned as enemy aliens. Drawing on the family’s artistic talents, the Messels reacted to the horrors of war with a full range of creative responses that went far beyond the expected.

John Hilary is an honorary professor at the University of Nottingham and a representative of the Messel family to the National Trust. His latest book, From Refugees to Royalty: The Remarkable Story of the Messel Family of Nymans, was published in 2021, and he is currently researching the cultural history of German-Jewish art collectors in Britain during the Edwardian era.

PLEASE NOTE

Instead of the £25 RRP plus postage and packaging, people attending this talk will be able to purchase a copy of John Hilary’s book at the special rate of £20 including p&p, which equates to a 30% discount. Please contact us on insidersoutsiders2019@gmail.com if you’re interested in benefitting from this offer.