We cannot hide the fact that the whole German question is a simple comparison between Prussia and Austria. In these states German life has its positive and negative--in Prussia, all the interests which are national and reformative [based on changed], in Austria, all that are dynastic and destructive. The German question is not a constitutional question, but a question of power; and the Prussian monarchy is now wholly German, while that of Austria cannot be. . . .We need a powerful ruling house. Austria's power means lack of power for us [Germans], whereas Prussia desired German unity in order to supply the lack of her own power. Already Prussia is Germany in origin. She will "merge" with Germany.
2. What are the goals of Austria?
3. What does a united Germany need and who would provide that?
2. The goals of Austria are focused on maintaining their dynastic power and influence within the German states, rather than prioritizing national unity or reformative measures. Austria aims to prevent Prussia from becoming the dominant power within Germany and to preserve their own position within the German Confederation.
3. A united Germany needs a powerful ruling house that is able to unite the various German states under a common leadership. In this context, Prussia is seen as the most suitable candidate to provide this leadership and unite the German states due to its national and reformative interests.
What elements of nationalism are found within this speech?
The speech highlights several elements of nationalism, including:
1. Identification of a common German identity: The speaker refers to "German life" and emphasizes the need for a powerful ruling house to unite the German states. This reflects a sense of shared national identity and the idea of a unified German nation.
2. Promotion of German unity: The speaker acknowledges the importance of German unity and emphasizes the need for a united Germany. This reflects a nationalist sentiment of uniting the German people under a common political entity.
3. Criticism of foreign interference: The speaker criticizes Austria for prioritizing dynastic power over the interests of the German people and suggests that Austria's power is detrimental to German unity. This reflects a nationalist perspective that prioritizes the interests and autonomy of the German nation over external influences.
Overall, the speech demonstrates a sense of German nationalism that emphasizes the importance of unity, independence, and a strong national identity.