In summer 2026, Hannah Arendt’s book The Origins of Totalitarianism was, for the first time, published in a critical edition. This edition contains the final versions of the book in English and German, with a scholarly apparatus and detailed annotations. It also includes earlier drafts of Arendt’s texts, as well as a comprehensive collection of essays, reviews, lectures, exposés, and typescripts from her archives. The presentation will highlight the advantages of the critical edition and discuss the timeliness of Arendt’s book. How does a critical edition differ from a ‘regular’ edition? How can this edition make new readings and interpretations of Arendt’s seminal work possible? In what ways can we relate her analysis of antisemitism, imperialism, and totalitarianism to the contemporary world?

Presentation by the editors of the book (Annette Vowinckel, Hanno Berger, Christian Pischel, Elena Stingl). Welcoming remarks by Dr. Mark Celinscak. There will be a pre-event reception in the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies (JO 4.800), which is near the event location. This event is being presented by the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies free of charge, but registration is required via this online form.

Event page information. Further details can be found under “Related Links”.