The Nazi Officer's Wife

Edith Hahn grows up in Vienna during the early years of the Nazi regime. Her childhood is marked by education, family dynamics, and the onset of political turmoil.

As the Nazis rise to power, Edith experiences the profound loss of her father, which profoundly affects her outlook on life and the trajectory of her future. This emotional upheaval comes during a time of increasing danger for her family.

During her college years, Edith embarks on a romantic relationship with a half-Jewish intellectual. This relationship highlights her longing for normalcy amidst the chaos surrounding them.

As conditions worsen, Edith's sisters manage to flee to Palestine, believing they will find safety. Meanwhile, Edith remains in Vienna, convinced she can navigate the dangers of her homeland.

Edith is eventually captured and forced into a slave labor camp, a harrowing experience that changes her life forever. This period is marked by hardship and the stark realization of her circumstances.

After returning home from the labor camp, Edith receives the devastating news of her mother's deportation to a concentration camp in Poland. This event solidifies Edith's awareness of her own precarious situation in Nazi-occupied territory.

Facing the imminent threat of her own deportation, Edith makes the bold choice to remove the yellow star from her clothing. She begins to live in hiding, relying on her wits and courage to survive.

With help from unexpected allies within the Nazi regime, Edith adopts a new identity as a young Aryan woman. This transformation signifies a new chapter in her life, filled with uncertainty but necessary for her survival.

In Munich, Edith secures a position as a nurse's aide for the Red Cross. This role not only provides her with a means of living but also allows her to navigate the complexities of her new identity.

While visiting a museum in Munich, Edith meets Werner Vetter, a charming Nazi officer. This encounter sparks an unexpected romance, complicating her already precarious situation.

Edith and Werner's romance leads to marriage and the birth of their child. Throughout this time, she meticulously guards her true identity, adapting to the role of a submissive Aryan wife.

As she settles into her new life, Edith suppresses her vibrant personality, living behind a facade to protect herself and her family. This dual existence creates an internal conflict that weighs heavily on her conscience.

Throughout her experiences, Edith reflects on the transformation she underwent to survive. Her journey serves as a testament to her resilience and the lengths one must go to during times of crisis.

The documentary concludes by underscoring Edith's legacy of survival amidst adversity. Through candid narratives, we gain insights into the broader implications of her story during one of history's darkest eras.