The creation of Donald Duck
You don’t become a Donaldist, you are a Donaldist. This deep conviction makes reading the book “Walt Disney’s Donald Duck – The Ultimate History”, which sheds light on the origins of the world’s most famous duck, even more intense. Donald Duck was introduced in 1934 in the short film “The Wise Little Hen”. This appearance marked the beginning of a career that made Donald one of the most iconic characters in the Disney universe. Of particular interest is the story of Clarence Nash, Donald’s first voice actor, who developed the voice style that made Donald Duck unmistakable. The first part of the book shows in detail how the collaboration between various artists created a character that still fascinates generations of Donald fans today.
© Taschen Verlag
Donald Duck in politics
Another section of the book is dedicated to the influence of Donald Duck during the Second World War. During this time, he not only appeared in animated films, but was also deliberately used in propaganda films to convey patriotic messages. Of particular note is the short film “The Face of the Führer”, in which Donald lives in a surreal nightmare version of Nazi Germany. This film was not only celebrated in the USA as a courageous satire, but also served as inspiration for the French Resistance in their resistance against the occupying power. The mixture of entertainment and serious social issues is vividly described in the book and shows how many different ways Donald has been interpreted over the years.
© Taschen Verlag
Development in comics and film
The artistic development of Donald Duck is also highlighted, especially through the work of Carl Barks, one of the most influential comic artists who shaped Donald. Barks not only created unforgettable stories, but also an entire universe centred on Duckburg and Donald’s family. Donald was often portrayed in the comics as a clumsy, unlucky character who gets into many situations that reflect his human weaknesses. The chapter shows how Barks developed Donald from a simple cartoon figure into a profound character who can portray emotional facets not dissimilar to humans.
© Taschen Verlag
A lasting legacy
The book is rounded off with a look at Donald Duck’s enduring influence on pop culture. Even after decades, Donald is still one of the most popular characters in the Disney universe and remains an icon that has endured for generations. Through a successful mix of humorous, emotional and socially relevant stories, Donald Duck has retained his significance over the years. A concluding outlook emphasises that Donald’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his fans around the world, regardless of linguistic or social boundaries. On 564 pages, the book “Walt Disney’s Donald Duck – The Ultimate History” offers a profound and comprehensive examination of a character who is far more than just a comic figure – a true feast for all Donaldists.
Event
On Friday, March 7, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, an exclusive presentation of the book Donald Duck. The Ultimate History will take place at the TASCHEN Store Berlin (Schlüterstraße 39, 10629 Berlin).
This event offers a unique opportunity to meet editor Daniel Kothenschulte and Disney comic illustrator Ulrich Schröder in person. Daniel Kothenschulte will sign copies of the book, while Ulrich Schröder will personalize them with an individual Donald Duck drawing. Guests will also have the chance to engage in conversation with both creators.
Daniel Kothenschulte is a renowned film critic and the editor of several Disney art books for TASCHEN, while Ulrich Schröder is a well-known Disney artist and comic illustrator. Together, they have created this comprehensive work, exploring nine decades of Donald Duck’s history.
The event is open to the public, and everyone is welcome to attend. Due to expected high demand, early arrival is recommended.
Data
| Original title | Walt Disney’s Donald Duck – The Ultimate History |
| Editor | Daniel Kothenschulte, David Gerstein, J. B. Kaufman |
| Publisher | Taschen Verlag |
| Cover | Hardcover |
| Pages | 564 pages, with numerous illustrations |
| Language | English |
| Dimensions | 30.8 x 39 cm |
| ISBN | 978-3-8365-5280-6 |
| Price | 175 € |
Further information
Further information on the book “Walt Disney’s Donald Duck – The Ultimate History” (advertising) can be found on the Taschen Verlag website.
Compliance
The book was kindly made available to us by the publisher. The presentation and rating of HYPERMADE remains independent of this and is based solely on the content of the book.