The Prophetic Charisma and Political Sacralization

A Weberian Reading of the Hitler Phenomenon

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29327/2401156.19.2-13

Keywords:

Max Weber, Charismatic Domination, Hitler, Politics, Totalitarianism

Abstract

This study analyzes the phenomenon of charismatic domination based on Max Weber’s typology of legitimate domination, focusing on the figure of Adolf Hitler. Through a qualitative approach and bibliographic analysis of Weber’s works and studies on the Third Reich, it investigates how Hitler’s leadership incorporated symbolic and religious elements that endowed his authority with a quasi-sacred character. The use of Weberian ideal types, especially that of the prophet, guides the interpretation of political charisma as a form of domination that mobilizes faith, belief, and myths of redemption. The results indicate that Hitler’s legitimation transcended political rationality, relying on mechanisms of sacralization and the construction of a prophet imaginary. The research contributes to understanding the intersection between religion and politics, highlighting the religious function of charisma in totalitarian regimes.

Author Biographies

Victor Brocenschi, PUC Campinas

Graduação em Filosofia, pela Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas. Mestrado em andamento em
Ciências da Religião, no Programa de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu em Ciências da Religião da Pontifícia
Universidade Católica de Campinas. E-mail: victor.brocenschi@hotmail.com

Paulo Augusto de Souza Nogueira, PUC Campinas

Doutor em Teologia pela Universidade de Heidelberg (Ruprecht-Karls), fez estudos pós-doutorais em História no NEE/Unicamp. Professor pesquisador do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Religião da Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Campinas. É pesquisador produtividade CNPq. E-mail: pans777@gmail.com

References

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Published

2026-06-30 — Updated on 2026-07-22

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How to Cite

Brocenschi, V., & Augusto de Souza Nogueira, P. (2026). The Prophetic Charisma and Political Sacralization: A Weberian Reading of the Hitler Phenomenon. Davar Polissêmica, 19(2), 615–628. https://doi.org/10.29327/2401156.19.2-13 (Original work published June 30, 2026)

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 2 (2025)

Section

Artigos/Articles: Temática Livre/Free subject

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