About this season
In Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, twenty-seven-year-old Jewish Etty Hillesum begins therapy. What starts as personal exploration becomes a spiritual awakening, documented in her diaries. Guided by psycho-chirologist Julius Spier, her mentor and lover, she undergoes a radical inner transformation. She’ll discover that even when all is taken, one can remain free within.
Episodes (6)
1. A Small Slice of Chaos
Aired 21 May 2026 • 51 min
While Etty faces the growing threat of fascism, she remains determined to pursue her writing ambitions. When she meets the therapist Julius Spier, the two quickly form an intense and life-changing bond.
2. The Girl Who Couldn’t Kneel
Aired 21 May 2026 • 41 min
As Etty’s brother Mischa appears to be missing, the Hillesum family sets out to search for him. Meanwhile, her relationship with therapist Julius Spier leaves her confused, but inspires her to begin writing a diary.
3. My Darkest Middle Ages
Aired 21 May 2026 • 54 min
Etty’s mental state improves as she continues writing her diary. In Amsterdam, “No entry for Jews” signs begin to appear. She is expelled from the university, while Spier falls into the hands of the Gestapo.
4. The Sky Within Me
Aired 28 May 2026 • 73 min
Jews are forced to give up their bicycles. Spier receives a deportation order to Westerbork transit camp. When Etty is summoned, Han urges her to seek exemption through the Jewish Council.
5. A Stepping Stone To a Great Love
Aired 28 May 2026 • 57 min
While working for the Jewish Council, Etty sees privileged Jews being granted exemptions from deportation. Despite her opposition to the system, she tries to use it to save Spier.
6. A Bandage on Many Wounds
Aired 28 May 2026 • 49 min
At her parents’ home in Deventer, Etty is awakened by Han, who wants her to go into hiding at Klaas’s house. Instead, she chooses to remain faithful to her chosen path.