R., A., S., Swastika Case Study

Question 1

The Swastika Symbol

Answer 1

Often can be seen in cultures all over the world, its history can be traced back to four thousand BC. In countries and regions that were historically influenced by the cultures of Asia: China, Taiwan, Japan, Hong Kong, Korea, Vietnam, and Singapore, the symbol is most commonly associated with Buddhism.

Question 2

Swastika in India

Answer 2

Its use dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization city of Harappa and came to represent Vishnu in Hinduism. It is a common practice for Hindus to draw Swastika symbols on the doors and entrances to their houses during festivals, which is believed to symbolize an invitation to goddess Lakshmi.

Question 3

Swastika in Chinese Taoism

Answer 3

Symbol of eternity

Question 4

Swastika in Tibetan Buddhism

Answer 4

It is emblematic of the element of Earth.

Question 5

Symbols: The Swastika

Answer 5

The Nazis adopted the swastika as their national symbol-logo even. Malcolm Quinn, author of The Swastika: Constructing a symbol that says that swastika is a symbol of Hitler himself.

Question 6

Leni Reifenstahl

Answer 6

Directed Triumph des Willens. A Nazi propaganda film. Was considered one of the most effective and technically innovative propaganda films ever. Her involvement with the film significantly damaged her career and reputation after the war. After the war she was arrested and continued to deny having known about the Holocaust.

Question 7

Do designers have a responsibility for how Nazi imagery is used?

Answer 7

“some graphic artist/designers contend that stealing Nazi images is also a polemical act. Reclaiming or co-opting the swastika neutralizes, satirizes, or demystifies these images, they claim. These are the smart ones. The less assume find Nazi imagery, well, ‘just kinda cool’.”