Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pacifist
I can explain how and why Bonhoeffer rebelled against the authorities of his time.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pacifist
I can explain how and why Bonhoeffer rebelled against the authorities of his time.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer rebelled against the political authorities of his time.
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer was an important figure in the resistance against the Nazi Party of Germany between 1933 and 1945.
- Dietrick Bonhoeffer was a pacifist who faced moral dilemmas relating to his resistance against the Nazi Party.
- Current cultural artefacts can inform us of the importance of the beliefs and actions of rebels from the past.
Keywords
Dilemma - a difficult choice between two or more options, often involving a moral or ethical conflict
Holocaust - the systematic persecution and murder of European Jews and other groups by the Nazis
Martyr - a person who suffers or dies for their beliefs or principles and is often seen as a hero or symbol of a cause
Pacifist - a person who believes in resolving conflicts without violence and opposes war or the use of force
Resistance - opposition and disobedience to the Nazi regime
Common misconception
Bonhoeffer was an absolute pacifist for his whole life.
Bonhoeffer was a pacifist, but had the opportunity to help with the attempt to assassinate Hitler, which he decided he should try to do, given the great evil and injustice Hitler was causing.
To help you plan your year 9 religious education lesson on: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pacifist, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 9 religious education lesson on: Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the pacifist, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 3 religious education lessons from the Rebels: should we embrace or challenge authority? unit, dive into the full secondary religious education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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