For Educators

The Future Shapes the Past: The Hilsner Case follows an 1899 blood libel case that was never resolved, and asks how a country chooses to remember its past. In the classroom, it opens discussion of antisemitism, wrongful conviction, the power of the press, and how Europe remembers the Holocaust.

Our free study guide for middle and high school classrooms includes eight discussion and reflection questions tied to moments in the film. Topics include the history of the blood libel, how newspapers shaped the trial, the reliability of witnesses, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk's moral courage, and the dangers of demonizing minority groups.

A 20-hour curriculum examining the evolution of the blood libel, is in preparation and is designed for university Jewish studies programs. To be notified when it's available, or to arrange a screening for your school, university, museum or community group, contact Tereza Kučerová at tereza@steelantproductions.com.