Today is History

Written by Steven Zaillian for the acclaimed, award-winning drama Schindler's List, this dramatic monologue depicts Amon Goeth addressing his troops. Goeth commands the liquidation of the Krakow Ghetto, framing the atrocity as the definitive erasure of centuries of Jewish history. Running between one and two minutes, the speech captures a chilling historical moment defined by chilling authority and cold conviction.

Amon Goeth is a military commander in his thirties whose menace lies in his absolute calm and total lack of empathy. Rather than shouting, he speaks with the casual poise of an administrator who believes he is directing the course of world events. To play Goeth effectively, an actor must embrace his chilling vanity, showing an authority figure completely convinced of his own historical importance.

This piece offers a compelling showcase for dramatic intensity, internal focus, and vocal poise without relying on melodrama. Casting teams frequently look for performers who can handle complex, unsympathetic material with quiet restraint rather than theatrical villainy. Because the writing is so potent, it provides an immediate opportunity to reveal your stage presence and command of serious, powerful text.

Actors aged twenty-five to thirty-five seeking roles characterized as villains, authority figures, or intense military leaders will find this piece well suited to their strengths. It is an effective selection for drama school auditions, self-tape submissions, and general practice. Character actors looking to showcase deep emotional control and psychological gravity can utilize this speech to stand out in auditions for serious dramatic projects.

Avoid the urge to push for evil or perform with exaggerated hostility, as Goeth's power stems from his chilling casualness. Speak with a steady, relaxed cadence, letting the horrifying nature of the orders contrast sharply with an almost pleasant demeanor. Keep your physical presence grounded, upright, and still, visualizing the assembled soldiers directly in your line of sight. Allow comfortable pauses between thoughts to let your character savor the weight of the moment.