Bismarck's extensive literature is contrasted with the short operational voyage that ended in its destruction. Its early success followed by defeat is offered as one reason the story attracts attention. Tirpitz prompts a different comparison because so much of its importance came from remaining a threat while spending long periods inactive. The bombardment of Spitsbergen and unsuccessful attempts to get at convoys are recalled as exceptions to that inactivity. Much of the writing on Tirpitz is described as concentrating on repeated attempts to sink it.
Notable Point · 2:50:09-2:52:20
Bismarck and Tirpitz: reputation and operations
The attention given to Bismarck and Tirpitz is compared with their short or limited operational careers and the effort spent trying to destroy them.