Tidens Samling - Image 1

Odense,Denmark

Tidens Samling

MuseumOpen20th CenturyWorld War II

Tidens Samling in Odense, Denmark, serves as a historical repository focusing on the life and political trajectory of Vidkun Quisling. The museum examines his role as a Norwegian military officer and his subsequent founding of the Nasjonal Samling party in 1933, which aligned with National Socialist ideology.

The exhibits provide a detailed analysis of the German occupation of Norway during World War II. Through archival materials and contextual displays, the museum documents the political climate of the era, the collaborationist government led by Quisling, and the broader impact of the occupation on Norwegian society and European history.

Key Facts

Materials
Mixed media, Archival paper, Photographic prints
Civilization
Modern European
Accessibility
Standard museum accessibility
Date(s)
20th Century
Condition
Active
Original Function
Historical Museum
Key Figures
Vidkun Quisling

Rise of Nasjonal Samling

1933-1940

The museum details the formation of the Nasjonal Samling party by Vidkun Quisling, tracing its ideological roots in fascism and its struggle for political relevance within the Norwegian parliamentary system prior to the German invasion.

Occupation and Collaboration

1940-1945

This section covers the period of German occupation, focusing on Quisling's appointment as Minister President and the administrative collaboration between his government and the Nazi occupation authorities.

Post-War Legacy

1945-Present

The final section examines the aftermath of the war, including the legal proceedings against Quisling, his execution for high treason, and the long-term historical memory of the collaborationist period in Norway.

Cultural Significance

The museum provides a critical perspective on the nature of political collaboration and the fragility of democratic institutions during wartime. It serves as an educational resource for understanding the mechanisms of fascist movements in Scandinavia.

Interpretive Notes

Scholarly debates and areas of uncertainty

Debates often center on the extent of Quisling's influence versus the direct control exerted by the German Reichskommissariat, as well as the historiographical interpretation of the 'Quisling' label in modern political discourse.

Visiting Information

Entry Rules

Open to the public during standard museum operating hours. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.

Best Times to Visit

Weekday mornings are recommended to avoid weekend crowds.

Photography

Personal photography is permitted for non-commercial use; flash photography is prohibited near sensitive archival documents.

Preservation Notes

Maintain a respectful distance from all displayed artifacts and archival documents. Do not touch glass cases.

Nearby POIs

10 shown

Sources & Further Reading

  1. [1]
    Quisling: A Study in Treason — Oddvar Høidal. Norwegian University Press (1989)
  2. [2]
    The Occupation of Norway — Hans Fredrik Dahl. University of Oslo Press (1999)