Hess: A Biography

Hess: A Biography (1971) traces the life and career of Rudolf Hess, from his early days through his role as Hitler's deputy in the Nazi Party. The book draws on official records, witness accounts, and historical documents to construct a complete portrait of this complex figure. The authors, Roger Manvell and Heinrich Fraenkel, examine Hess's psychological profile and political motivations within the context of Nazi Germany's rise and fall. Their investigation covers his partnership with Hitler, his dramatic flight to Scotland, and his subsequent imprisonment. The biography confronts the ethical and legal questions surrounding Hess's lengthy incarceration at Spandau Prison, including debates about justice and punishment in the post-war period. This work stands as both a historical record and an exploration of personal responsibility in times of political extremism.

Readers note this 1973 biography provides a straightforward account of Rudolf Hess's life but lacks depth in analyzing his psychological state and motivations. Readers appreciated: - Clear chronological narrative structure - Access to British intelligence files and interrogation records - Coverage of Hess's time in Spandau Prison - Focus on his flight to Scotland Common criticisms: - Limited insight into Hess's personality and mental health - Dry, academic writing style - Some facts and details disputed by historians Ratings: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (43 ratings) Amazon: 4.1/5 (12 ratings) Several readers mention the book works best as an introduction to Hess rather than a definitive biography. One Amazon reviewer wrote: "Solid research but fails to get inside Hess's head." A Goodreads reader noted: "Presents the facts without sensationalism but could have explored his psychological deterioration more thoroughly."

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🔹 Rudolf Hess's solo flight to Scotland in 1941 remains one of WWII's greatest mysteries - he claimed he wanted to negotiate peace with Britain, but Hitler denounced him as mentally unstable after the flight. 🔹 Authors Manvell and Fraenkel conducted groundbreaking interviews with Hess's former secretary and other Nazi Party members who had never previously spoken about their experiences. 🔹 During his 40-year imprisonment in Spandau, Hess was the facility's only inmate for over 20 years, costing millions in maintenance for a prison that housed just one man. 🔹 The book reveals that Hess was deeply involved in the occult and astrology, which significantly influenced his political decisions and relationship with Hitler. 🔹 Co-author Roger Manvell was one of the first British officers to enter Bergen-Belsen concentration camp after liberation, giving him unique insight into the Nazi regime's brutality.