Date of Submission

Spring 2023

Academic Program

Film and Electronic Arts

Project Advisor 1

Joshua Glick

Project Advisor 2

Richard Suchenski

Abstract/Artist's Statement

This thesis investigates how sound design can contribute to the representation, understanding, and historical accuracy of contemporary Holocaust cinema. The Holocaust is a defining event in world history that must be studied in order to prevent future genocides and to properly remember those affected. Through a detailed analysis of the soundscapes of three Holocaust films—, The Lady in Number Six: Music Saved My Life, Son of Saul, and Ida— I will examine how sound design can strengthen the discourse of Holocaust cinema and contribute to an enhanced acknowledgment and understanding of both the Holocaust and the after-effects of World War II. Additionally, the ethical and aesthetic considerations in conveying the trauma of those who experienced the Holocaust are also addressed. With a specific examination of the role of documentary sound, off-screen sound, and the absence of sound, the impacts of fostering a deeper awareness of the Holocaust are analyzed. Consequently, the importance of Holocaust cinema is discussed regarding its impact on current and future generations, as well as its influence in preventing antisemitic behavior.

Open Access Agreement

On-Campus only

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

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