Registration for this course is closed. This course focuses on the finest films of combatant nations from both sides, set in the aftermath of history’s most destructive war. They reveal the depths of human trauma experienced by soldiers and civilians alike. They are not considered war films, as most of the killing and dying occurs offscreen. As an example, in the 2019 film, “Beanpole,” Russian women, who served as soldiers in combat, struggle to rebuild shattered lives in a shattered nation. The final film, “Mudbound” (2017), is an important corrective to the feel-good 1946 classic “The Best Years of Our Lives” as it shows the racism and violence that all too many United States black soldiers returned to after serving their country. Following the screenings, the instructor will discuss critical responses to the films, including thoughts on intellectual honesty. The instructor will then moderate class discussions so students can express their personal reactions to these films.