Oskar Schindler by David Crowe

Oskar Schindler was a man of many contradictions: a spy, businessman, and Nazi Party member who ultimately became a Righteous Gentile. David Crowe's landmark biography delves into every phase of Schindler's life, presenting a nuanced portrait of a man who was both a savior and an opportunist. Schindler is best known for saving over a thousand Jews by putting them on the famed 'Schindler's List,' but the reality of his involvement is far more complex. Crowe examines Schindler's role in the creation of the list and the challenges he faced, including local efforts to stop the movement of Jewish workers and his arrest by the SS. After the war, Schindler struggled to rebuild his life and gain recognition for his wartime deeds. He died in poor health in 1974, and his legacy remained controversial, especially after his wife, Emilie, began to criticize him following the release of Steven Spielberg's film. Crowe's biography steps beyond the mythology surrounding Schindler, offering a comprehensive look at the life and work of a man described as 'an extraordinary man in extraordinary times.'

Reviews

Menlo Park Bibliocommons · 2025-12-11

detailed 3.96

This is a deeply researched and long book that provides an in-depth look at Oskar Schindler and the Jewish people he saved during WWII. It's a thorough exploration of a complex historical figure.

If you're looking for a detailed and well-researched biography, this book is a great choice. It provides an in-depth look at Oskar Schindler's life and his efforts to save Jewish people during World War II. The book is lengthy, but the depth of research and the comprehensive coverage make it a valuable read. It's clear that the author has put a lot of effort into understanding and portraying Schindler's complex character. The book offers a nuanced view of Schindler, acknowledging both his heroic actions and his personal struggles. This balanced approach makes the book a compelling read for anyone interested in historical biographies.

Quick quotes

An in depth look at the life of Oskar Schindler and the Jewish people he saved during WWII.

It's a long book, deeply researched, and provides a comprehensive view of a complex historical figure.

The book offers a nuanced view of Schindler, acknowledging both his heroic actions and his personal struggles.

UCSB Faculty History · Lauren Foehr · 2009-01-01

nuanced 3.50

The book argues that Schindler initially sought to make money, engaging in both moral and economic compromises. It presents a complex portrait of a figure who was both a savior and an opportunist.

Lauren Foehr's review highlights the book's argument that Oskar Schindler initially sought to make money, engaging in both moral and economic compromises. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to Schindler's character, presenting him as both a savior and an opportunist. The book's detailed examination of Schindler's motivations and actions provides a nuanced understanding of his role during the Holocaust. Foehr's review suggests that the book offers a balanced view, acknowledging Schindler's heroic actions while also exploring his personal struggles and compromises. This balanced approach makes the book a compelling read for those interested in a deeper understanding of this historical figure. The detailed accounts and balanced observations provide a rich context that enhances the reader's appreciation of Schindler's impact and the challenges he faced.

Quick quotes

Crowe argues that Oskar Schindler sought early on to solely make money, engaging in both moral and economic compromises in order to generate profits.

Presenting a savior of mythic proportions who was also an opportunist and spy.

This book offers the first true exploration of the myths and realities of the controversial Holocaust figure.

Goodreads · 2004-01-01

balanced 3.90

The research is impeccable and balanced, providing a comprehensive look at both Oskar and Emilie Schindler's lives. It presents a nuanced view of a complex figure.

This biography stands out for its thorough research and balanced perspective. The author delves into the lives of both Oskar and Emilie Schindler, offering a comprehensive view of their experiences before, during, and after World War II. The book doesn't shy away from the complexities of Oskar Schindler's character, portraying him as both a savior and a flawed individual. This nuanced approach makes the book a compelling read for those interested in a deeper understanding of this historical figure. The detailed accounts and balanced observations provide a rich context that enhances the reader's appreciation of Schindler's impact and the challenges he faced.

Quick quotes

Crowe's research is impeccable, his observations balanced and his coverage of both Oskar and Emilie Schindler's lives before, during and after WWII are fully detailed.

This book offers the first true exploration of the myths and realities of the controversial Holocaust figure.

Presenting a savior of mythic proportions who was also an opportunist and spy.

Appears in Lists

13 Important Books About the Holocaust