British Germanophobia During WW1: 'The Enemy at Home'

Learn why the Germanophobia of WW1 was a watershed moment for Britain

Communities reacting to outside threats sometimes lash out against a perceived enemy within. This three-week course from the University of Hull looks at how this happened in Britain during World War 1 (WW1), with the mushrooming of fierce Germanophobia.

Unpack the causes and development of Britain’s Germanophobia

You’ll start the course with a look at England before the War, including the Edwardian and Victorian love for German food and culture, before delving into the tensions and events (including the arms race) leading up to the declaration of war.

With this history, you’ll gain insights into the way that British Germanophilia became Germanophobia and the riots and assaults that ensued. You’ll also learn about the sizable role that propaganda played, embellishing or even creating stories of German atrocities.

Explore the far-reaching legacy of World War 1

You’ll see exactly how the effects of the propaganda and anti-German sentiment manifested at the time, noticeably in the creation of the House of Windsor (changing the name from the German Saxe-Coburg) and the promotion of ‘English’ music.

As well as the War’s immediate impact, you’ll get a detailed explanation of the effects that are still seen today. This includes the continued changes to the House of Windsor, negative media reports, and even new pub opening times.

See WW1 realities through the eyes of experts

This course is presented by two senior lecturers from the University of Hull, who are both leading authorities on the First World War.

Dr Jenny Macleod has published several books and articles on the cultural history of the First World War, while Dr Nicholas Evans specialises in how the conflict ended Britain’s love affair with all things German. Together, they deliver an engaging and enlightening course.

This course is designed for anyone interested in understanding WW1 more, especially its impact on the home front and the early 20th century in general. No previous experience or research is required to learn about its dramatic effect on British life.

This course is designed for anyone interested in understanding WW1 more, especially its impact on the home front and the early 20th century in general. No previous experience or research is required to learn about its dramatic effect on British life.

• Pre-war
• Welcome to the course
• Would Britainnia always Rule the Waves?
• Spies and invasion fears
• Admiration for German culture
• Conclusion
• 1914
• German invasion of Belgium
• Evaluating atrocity stories
• German naval raids on English ports
• Propaganda
• Patriotism on the Home Front
• Over by Christmas?
• Conclusion
• 1915
• Total war
• Zeppelins
• Lusitania riots
• Personal stories of war: Hohenrein family in Hull
• Reactions
• Reflection