Functionary Prisoners: Behavioural Patterns and Social Processes A new approach at the example of Mittelbau-Dora Concentration Camp

Functionary prisoners in Nazi concentration camps occupied an intermediate position between the superior SS and inferior regular inmates. Their ambivalent role led to certain behaviour and group formation processes. Using sociological theories, this thesis seeks to investigate an unexplored point of view in relation to the position of functionary prisoners in the camp society. By doing so, this thesis offers a comprehensive approach towards behaviour patterns and social processes of functionary prisoners. Based on an elaborated definition, this study argues for an extension of previous lines of research on this group. In order to achieve, it examines the room for manoeuvre of functionaries in relation to other social actors in the camp. A second major interest constitute their social differentiation processes. Finally, behavioural patterns and social processes in relation to ethnicity form a basis for a broader perspective.