Germany's national anthem, "Das Lied der Deutschen" ("The Song of the Germans"), is a powerful piece of history, imbued with both soaring patriotism and controversial connotations. Understanding its lyrics is key to grasping its significance and the complex national identity it represents. Let's delve into the words themselves, exploring their meaning and evolution over time.
The Four Stanzas of "Das Lied der Deutschen"
The anthem, officially adopted in 1922 (and again after WWII), comprises four stanzas, though only the third is currently sung. Here's a look at each, with a translation and commentary:
Stanza 1:
German: Deutschland, Deutschland über alles, Über alles in der Welt, Wenn es stets zum Guten strebt, Gross ist seine Macht und Heldentat.
English Translation: Germany, Germany above all, Above all in the world, When it always strives for good, Great is its power and heroic deed.
Commentary: This stanza is the most controversial. The phrase "Deutschland, Deutschland über alles" ("Germany, Germany above all") is often misinterpreted as a call for German supremacy. However, the subsequent lines suggest that this "above all" is conditional on Germany striving for good. Its association with the aggressive nationalism of the Nazi era makes this stanza highly sensitive and largely avoided in modern usage.
Stanza 2:
German: Von der Maas bis an die Memel, Von der Etsch bis an den Belt, Wo die deutschen Fahnen wehen, Fluss und Land, und Berg und Feld.
English Translation: From the Maas to the Memel, From the Etsch to the Belt, Where the German flags wave, River and land, and mountain and field.
Commentary: This stanza delineates the geographic extent of German-speaking territories, invoking a sense of unity and shared heritage. The rivers and geographical features mentioned represent the historical borders and lands associated with German identity. This stanza, like the first, carries historical baggage due to its association with expansionist ideologies.
Stanza 3 (The Officially Sung Stanza):
German: Einigkeit und Recht und Freiheit Für das deutsche Vaterland! Danach lasst uns alle streben Brüderlich mit Herz und Hand!
English Translation: Unity and right and freedom For the German fatherland! Let us all strive for that, Brotherly with heart and hand!
Commentary: This is the only stanza currently used in official settings. It focuses on the values of unity, justice, and freedom, promoting a sense of national togetherness and shared ideals. The emphasis on brotherhood and striving together emphasizes cooperation and common goals, mitigating the aggressive nationalism present in the earlier stanzas.
Stanza 4:
German: Hoch, Deutschland, hoch in Ehren, Selig, wer für Freiheit starb! Dieses Lied, das wir euch singen, Macht uns stark, es macht uns karg.
English Translation: High, Germany, high in honor, Blessed is he who died for freedom! This song that we sing to you, Makes us strong, it makes us austere.
Commentary: This stanza speaks to the sacrifices made for freedom and the strengthening power of the national anthem itself. The concept of "karg" (austere) suggests a readiness for hardship and dedication to the national cause.
The Anthem's History and Controversy
"Das Lied der Deutschen" was composed in 1841 by August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben. Its adoption as the national anthem was a complex process, reflecting the changing political landscape of Germany. Its use during the Nazi period heavily tainted its image, prompting careful consideration of which stanzas are appropriate for modern usage. The decision to only sing the third stanza reflects a conscious attempt to distance the anthem from its problematic past and promote a message of unity and freedom.
Conclusion
"Das Lied der Deutschen" is more than just a song; it's a historical artifact reflecting the evolution of German national identity. By understanding its lyrics and history, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities and sensitivities surrounding this powerful and often controversial national anthem. The ongoing debate over its use underscores the continuous negotiation of national identity and the challenges of reconciling historical narratives with contemporary values.
