Comprehension Questions
Answer the following questions based on the text “Night” by Elie Wiesel noting page numbers and citing textual evidence to support your answers.
Comprehension Questions are due Thursday, April 17th - NO LATE WORK FOR "NIGHT" WILL BE ACCEPTED OVER OR AFTER SPRING BREAK!
PREFACE to the NEW TRANSLATION:
1.) Read the preface by Elie Wiesel. Why do you suppose Wiesel imposed a ten-tear vow of silence?
He was still in shock. He was stunned by all of the experiences he has witnessed. He also took the vow in memory of al of the people that died.
2.) Why did he have trouble finding a publisher?
It too morbid and grotesque. It was too sensitive of a topic in the 50's and 60's and it wasn't popular.
3.) What is the “devastation that will never end”?
The memories and reflections of his experiences. It will never end, it is a part of him forever.
4.) What is Wiesel saying about how we can make sure that something this horrible is never repeated?
To inform everyone and to never forget so no one will have to go through this.
FOREWARD:
5.) Read the Foreword by Francois Mauriac. Why is Mauriac so moved by Wiesel’s book – of all the Holocaust literature he had seen?
He thinks that it is memorable. He is remembering the past. He thinks that it is more authentic for the view.
6.) How do you explain the “inconceivable passivity” with which the Jews of Sighet yield themselves to the Nazis?
Their culture states that they are not really aggressive. They are also in fear of being hung or killed. They didn't know what the Nazis were, they just followed through, for the hope.
7.) What aspects of Wiesel’s experience does Mauriac find most disturbing?
When the sister and the mother are burned to death, then the black smoke comes out. He also talks about children being hung and killed. People being transported in cattle cars. Also about the absence of God, how can God let something like this happen. The people dying is related to the death of Christ.
NIGHT:
MMM
8.) When and where does Elie Wiesel grow up? (city, country and time period) How old is he?
Elie grew up in Sighet in Transylvannia. He is 12 years old.
9.) Try to picture Elie’s childhood. How is his childhood like yours and how is it different?
His dad does not care about the family. He is devoted to God and the Church and is growing up in Transylvannia in Jewish tradition.
10.) Who is “Moshe the Beadle” and why does Wiesel begin the story with him?
Moishe is the mentor for Elie. Elie starts with Moishe because he is very important.
11.) What do Eliezer’s parents and the other in the community think of Moshe?
Moishe is the town fool. He has no money and is taken lightly.
12.) Why does Elie spend so much time with Moshe?
Elie looks upon Moishe as a religious mentor or leader
13.) What is Elie’s father’s profession?
14.) Is Elie’s father highly respected in the Jewish community?
Yes, Elie's father is a repected person in the community and in the church.
15.) What has happened to Moshe that caused a great change in him?
Moishe escaped and had watched people dig holes and get shot into them.
16.) How does this experience change Moshe?
Moishe had seen people get shot and even children and babies.
17.) How does the rest of the community react when he tells them what has happened to him?
They do not believe him because they think that it is just Moishe being himself.
18.) The Jews of Sighet are optimistic because of the news they hear on the radio in late 1942 and 1943. What is the news and why are they so optimistic?
19.) With an ironic tone, Wiesel says, “Besides, people were interested in everything – in strategy, in diplomacy, in politics, in Zionism – but not their own fate.” What does he mean?
20.) Berkovitz brings news from Budapest that anti-Semitism (hostility or discrimination against Jews) war is rampant. Why then, is “optimism soon revived”?
21.) Why do “the optimists rejoiced” even three days after the German soldiers appear in Sighet?
22.) Why is celebrating Passover like playing a “comedy”?
Their hearts are not in in. They are going through the motion, but they really do not care or not feeling it.
23.) What does the following mean? “On the seventh day of Passover the curtain rose.”
The Germans arrest the Jewish leaders of the community. The happiness was taken away and things got real.
24.) Name the decrees (laws) the Germans put into place.
Stay in the house for three days, or they would die.
They had to give up any jewelry, or die.
All of the Jews had to wear yellow stars.
25.) Describe the ghettos.
It is a community of Jewish surrounded by barb wires.
26.) How do the Jews of Sighet generally feel about the ghettos?
They think that it is a good think, because they are living amongst Jews. They do not have to live with the soldiers, they feel excluded from the hostile enviornment, they enjoy that.
27.) Why do the Jews of Sighet think they are being deported and why is their destination kept secret from them?
They are too close to the frontlines of war. They are being taken to Hungary to work in a brick factory.
28.) How could the Jews of Sighet have possibly escaped from the Germans?
They could have gone to the police officers. They could have also believed Moishe and they could have escaped.
29.) How do they prepare for deportation?
Just one backpack for person. They are not bringing personal items, just food and some clothes.
30.) Why is there “joy” when the signal finally comes for them to leave?
They think that anything is better than being in a crowd of people and not knowing what will happen next. They are relieved that the signal came out and they will not be miserable.
31.) How does Elie feel as he watches the procession or deportees?
32.) Who offers Elie and his family safe refuge?
Maria, the maid offers the family safe refuge.
33.) Why doesn’t Elie’s father accept the offer?
He is an elder, he needs to be the heroic figure of the community. He has to also save the rest of the community.
34.) On what day of the week is the family expelled and why is this ironic?
Saturday, because it is their day of rest. They are being forced to be expelled and to be moved to a camp.
35.) They spend 24 hours in a synagogue. What are the conditions like? Give examples.
The synagogue is messy. They are separating them by gender, male and female. It was ruined by German soldiers.
36.) How are the Jews moved out of Sighet?
They are being transported by cattle cars. They are being transported 80 persons a time.
37.) Why do you suppose no one tries to escape?
Because if you try to escape, they will be shot.
38.) Why does the Hungarian lieutenant move among the prisoners with a basket?
They are taking anything valuable that they have left like watches, gold, and silver.
39.) What actions do “those who no longer wished to taste the bitterness of terror” take?
They try to calm her down and being very obedient. They are trying to protect her.
40.) Who is Madame Schachter and why is she so upset?
She is separated from from her husband and her two other sons.
41.) How do the others treat her and why?
They tie her up and band her so that she won't talk anymore. She is terrifying everyone. Everyone is frightened by the crazy ld
42.) What is the first thing the prisoners see when they got to Birkenau?
They see a labor camp. They also spot a fireplace burning.
43.) What do they smell?
They smell burning flesh.
44.) Who are the SS men?
They are Hitler's soldiers. They were all forced to fight for their country or death.
45.) How do Elie and his father get separated from Mother and Tzipora?
The SS men separated the people by gender, men and women.
46.) What is Elie’s last memory of them?
Mom is stroking the hair. She is calming her down and letting her know that it will be ok.
47.) Why do some of the younger men want to attempt an escape?
Some men escape because they do not want to die like this. They feel that they should not be treated like this.
48.) Why don’t they go through with it?
They feel that they shouldn't be with this.
49.) What lies do Elie and his father tell to Dr. Mengale and why?
Elie is lying of being 18 and a farmer. Elie's father is lying about his occupation.
50.) Why does Elie’s father wish Elie has gone with his mother and why is this ironic?
To be safe with mom. And he also doesn't want to see his only son die. When he had the chance to save his family, he didn't follow through, now that he is about to die, he is wanting to save his kid.
51.) What do you suppose Elie would say to those who claim that innocent children were not murdered during the Holocaust?
He witnessed children being unloaded and being thrown into pits of fire. Also he was separated from his family and assumes that they died too.
52.) What is the Kaddish and why doesn’t’ Elie join his father in reciting it?
The Kaddish is a prayer for the dead. The father does not pray the Kaddish because it is like giving up and admiting that they would die.
53.) How do the prisoners who are already in the barracks treat the newcomers?
They are mean to them and give them demands. They hit them and beat theme up.
54.) What are Elie and the others ordered to do?
They are forced to take off their clothes. They have to only hold on to their belt and shoes. Then they go to the barber to get shaved.
55.) How does Elie change by the end of the first night? (physically, emotionally, and spirirtually)
Their tormented souls. He gives up hope of escaping and knows that they will die. He also gives up God, and losses his faith in God.
56.) How does Elie keep his his shoes from the “Kapos” at first?
He was in the mud. And in the mud, it disguised his shoes and made them look older.
57.) According to the SS officer, what is the only way to avoid the furnaces?
To work. They have to either work or die.
58.) Why does the gypsy strike Elie’s father and how does Elie react?
Because he asks for the bathrooms. He is scared of what might happen to him and he is no longer feeling the emotions.
59.) To what new camp are the prisoners taken?
From Birkanau to Aushwitz.
60.) Who is in charge of the block and what is his advice?
A young Polish guy. He advises to not loose faith and to help each other as a team.
61.) How does Elie become “A-7713”?
He feels like a prisoner more than a person this far.
62.) Describe “roll call”.
There are marches and songs. There are marching bands coming out and singing songs.
63.) Who is Stein and why does Elie lie to him?
A relative in the same family tree. He lies in order to make him feel better.
64.) Why does Stein stop coming to see Elie?
He realizes that they were lying to him. He has lost hope and given up.
65.) Akiba Drumer believes that God is testing the Jews and that this punishment they are enduring is actually a sign of love. What does Elie think of this theory?
They think that God is testing the Jews because it is a test to test their faith and continue believing
66.) How could Elie have bribed the assistant to arrange for him to go with his father to a “good unit”?
The shoes.
67.) Why doesn’t he try the bribe?
It was the only thing he had left.
68.) Where is music played in the camp?
It is played in the entrance of the camp. They call the entrance the "first block."
69.) Why can’t the musicians play Beethoven?
Jews were not allowed to play German music because they were Jews.
70.) Why is Elie sent to the dentist?
He is sent to the dentist to take out his golden teeth.
71.) Why is he so desperate to keep his tooth and why doesn’t he succeed in keeping it?
He might be able to use it in the future. It is one of his last possessions.
72.) Who beats Elie in front of the French girl and why?
Aryan because he was Jewish.
73.) Why is she afraid to speak to him?
Because he is Jewish and because he is just there.
74.) What advice does she give to Elie and what does this show about her?
To keep the anger and there is hope. She is very hopeful of what will happen.
75.) Why does Idek beat Elie’s father?
Idek sees that Elie's father isn't working faster than the others.
76.) Why is Elie angry at his father for getting beaten?
Because his dad is not trying to make things better and work faster.
77.) Why does Elie give his father “marching lessons”?
He cannot march in place. Fraunic beats his dad while the other are marching, because Elie wouldn't give up the gold crown.
78.) Why does Elie laugh at Idek and what is the result?
Elie is hooking up with a girl. He is laughing because he sent the commando away just to be with the girl.
79.) What do the air raid sirens signify?
There was a bombing. There were planes coming to bomb Buna.
80.) Why is this a particularly dangerous time for prisoners?
It is killing them. They are left by themselves, without any protecting. If a bomb goes off, they're dead.
81.) How is “terror stronger than hunger”?
They know that they could die. The fear of being shot or beaten up is stronger than being hungry. He has just been whipped 25 times, it is not worth it.
82.) How does the death of that one man affect Elie and how does he react when the air raid is over?
It shows him what would have happened if he tried to get the soup. It does not affect him, he knows that he shouldn't go for the soup. It is normal for him to witness someone die.
83.) Who are some of the people who die on the gallows?
Young boy. He was hanged because he stole during the air raid.
Pipel, for stealing weapons.
84.) What phrase so many repeat before their deaths?
Long Live Liberty!
85.) Why are people hanged rather than being shot or killed some other way?
It is painful and haunting. You see the suffering and people slowing dying.
86.) Whose death affects Elie the most and why?
Pipel, because he was a young and innocent kid. Even the person in charge will not hang him.
87.) Why does Elie find the soup “excellent” after one execution, but tasting of “corpses” after another?
He is remembering the death of the little kid. The first, he witnessed a normal person hung. He realizes that the soldiers do not care how old the person is, because of the little kid.
88.) What is Rosh Hashanah?
The Jewish New Year.
89.) Why do you suppose even “Kapos, functionaries of death” come to the Rosh Hashanah service?
They came to watch the Jews and protection. They are there to participate and be faithful and to celebrate the New Year.
90.) What is going through Elie’s mind?
He is loosing faith. He feels that he is alone and he has lost himself. He feels defeated.
91.) Is Elie in the minority when he “rebelled” inwardly and why does he call the place where the Kews meet to pray a “mirage”?
A mirage is an illuision. They think that they see hope but to be true, it is not realy there.
92.) What does Elie mean when he says of his father, “We had never understood each other so clearly”?
They say this after the hangings. They notice that they love each other and that they are thankful for being together and stil have each other.
93.) What is Yom Kippur?
A day of atonement where Jews fast.
94.) Why doesn’t Elie fast?
It is a symbol of rebellion. He is already starving, there is no need to fast. He is rebelling against God.
95.) What is the “fine New Year’s gift” the SS gives the prisoners?
They give them selection.
96.) What advice does Elie get from the head of the block about avoiding selection?
To run as fast as you can adn to run straight ahead. Also to give yourself some color before selection.
97.) What does Wiesel mean when he says, as the prisoners stand naked, “This must show how one stands at the last judgment”?
This is the last judgemennt either staying alive or dying.
98.) What is Dr. Mengele’s attitude during the “selection”?
Dr. Mengele is acting like it is a game. He makes them do unneccessary things.
99.) What are Elie’s thoughts as he goes through the “race”?
His head is spinning. He keeps on runing and talking to himself to make it through.
100.) What sorts of “presents” and “inheritance” gifts does Wiesel’s father give Elie and why?
He gives him bread and a piece of rubber. He brought bread becasue he was hungry.
He also gives him a knife and a spoon.
101.) Why does Elie return them to his father?
Elie returns them because he doesn't need them. He will not take things from his dad and acknowledge that he is weak.
102.) What does this show about how life changes when mere survival is a struggle?
You actually need survival tools instead of real "inheritance." He needs real tools in order to survive.
103.) What happens to many of the prisoners when they lose faith?
They also loose hope and te will to fight. They are giving up and given up in selection.
104.) Why does Wiesel tell the story of Akiba Dumer – and how everyone forgets to say the Kaddish for him?
He is a perfect example of someone loosing faith. They lost their faith and their brotherhood. It was easy to forget someone.
105.) How does Wiesel end up in the hospital?
His foot is sweliing in the winter. Probably, he was infected.
106.) What decision is Wiesel faced with while he is in the hospital?
If he should leave and go or stay in the hospital.
107.) What is Elie’s choice and why does he choose this option?
He chooses to wait it out and stay in the hospital. Because he doesn't trust his neighbor. He learns not to trust everyone.
108.) Why is the camp being evacuated?
The Red Army was coming near them. The war was approaching the concentration camp.
109.) Why do the prisoners want the Russians to arrive first?
To rescue them. if they don't show up first, they will be dead or be forced to fight.
110.) What is meant by the question the prisoners ask: “were they (SS) going to let the Jews hear the twelfth stroke sound?”
Everybody was supposed to be killed by midnight. The prisoners ask the SS officers because they wanted to see if they were going to kill them or not.
111.) How does the “face of the camp” change on the morning of the evacuation?
They change clothing and get more clothing. They get food and whatever they take. It kind of turns into a free for all for survival.
112.) Why does the head of the block order the prisoners to clean the floor, and how do you think the prisoners feel about this task?
The head of the block orders the prisoners to clean the floor to make the Russian soldiers think, when they arrive, that they were men. Even though they were prisoners taking care of themselves, they were treated as men. This is ironic for the prisoners because they were treated as animals.
113.) Reread the description of the evacuation at the end of the chapter. Why does the author choose to use a series of short sentences in this passage? What is the effect?
It is happening fast. It gives you a sense of urgency when you read it. You kind of relate what the characters are going through.
114.) What does Wiesel mean by the observations of the SS men “Their fingers on the triggers, they did not deprive themselves of this pleasure”?
Whoever stopped running or slows down, they get shot. The fingers on the triggers suggest that the SS officers are still in charge. If any prisoner messes with them, that prisoner will be shot.
115.) What is sadism and where do you see evidence of it in the novel?
Saddistict people find pleasure in giving pain to other people. They are pleased when they hurt others. Froe example, the SS officer hurts Elie's father. They do not give bread to the prisoners. The doctor does not help the father. When they abused their power to not help the weak, no empathy, no mercy.
116.) What happens to Zalman?
Zalman has stomach pains, and he takes his pants off probably to relieve the pain, but then falls over on the ground and dies just because of being trampled over by the thousands of people that are marching forward.
117.) In what way are Wiesel and the other Jews who keep rushing onward “masters of nature” -then in the morning “without strength, without illusions”?
Wiesel and the other Jews were "masters of nature" because they have gone through so much and are so desensitized that they become strong against abuse and the harsh environment. Then in the morning, they were without strength because they were running all night and became exhausted after the harsh run.
118.) How do Wiesel and his father help each other stay alive?
Wiesel and his father help each other stay alive by looking out for each other and keeping each other awake so they both don't go to sleep.
119.) Why does Wiesel tell the story of Rabbi Eliahou?
Wiesel tells the story of Rabbi Eliahou because the story shows what would happen if Wiesel and his father would be separated.
120.) Why is he glad that the rabbi “should continue to look for his beloved son”?
Wiesel is glad that the rabbi continues to look for his beloved son because since it mirrors Wiesel's relationship with his father, it gives him the peace of mind that his father would search for him if Wiesel would be separated or lost.
121.) Why do you think that “sons abandoned their fathers’ remains without a tear”?
I think that the sons abandoned their fathers' like that because they might feel that their fathers are holding them back, or they are used to it, or because they can't do anything about it.
122.) How does Wiesel avoid suffocation?
Wiesel avoids suffocation when he separates the bodies above him and makes himself an air hole to breathe through.
123.) Why does Wiesel think he is hallucinating?
Wiesel thinks he is hallucinating because he hears the music and the violin in a terrible situation, so he assumes immediately he is hallucinating.
124.) Why is Juliek playing his violin in this terrible situation?
Juliek is playing the violin in this terrible situation because he plays it for the dead, and for himself because he knows that either the violin is either going to be taken away, or he dies, so he would rather die happy.
125.) What happens to Juliek
Juliek ends up dead on the floor next to his trampled violin.
126.) How does Wiesel’s father avoid being “selected” at Gleiwitz and why does Wiesel run after him to the left?
Wiesel's father avoids being "selected" by being taken by Wiesel and crossed over to the right side, where all the healthy people were, during the confusion. Wiesel runs off after his father to the left so he won't be separated by him and so he can save him.
127.) How does Wiesel convey a sense of hopelessness in this final section of the book?
Wiesel conveys a sense of hopelessness in the section of the book because he gives the impression that everyone is waiting to die because there is nothing to live for.
128.) Why do the two men try to throw Wiesel’s father from the carriage?
The two men tried to through Wiesel's father out the carriage because he looked dead and was barely breathing.
129.) Why do the living “rejoice” when the order comes to throw out the corpses?
The living rejoice because they would have more room because the corpses would not take unneeded space.
130.) What is the author trying to say about the prisoners at this point?
The author tries to say about the prisoners that they act like animals, only caring for themselves, and taking whatever they can get.
131.) How do the prisoners in the wagon act like animals?
They only care for themselves and act selfishly against each other, not helping each other out, basically making the prisoners playing a free-for-all in survival.
132.) Why do the German workmen take a “lively interest in this spectacle” when they have merely stopped and stared at marching prisoners before?
The German workmen take an interest now because it is their way of making fun of the hungry Jews. The German workmen don't sympathize or empathize with the Jews, so they make fun of them.
133.) Why doesn’t Wiesel join in this scramble for food?
Wiesel doesn't join to scramble for food because he knows he is not strong enough to fight for some bread.
134.) How are Meir and his son similar to other fathers and sons Wiesel describes?
They either get father or closer about because of the situation.
135.) What is the author saying about how the concentration camp affects the bonds between loved ones?
That everyone either gets closer or farther depending on their communication.
136.) How does Meir Katz save Elie Wiesel’s life?
Meir Katz helps Elie and can only do so much.
137.) What advice does Wiesel’s father give Katz in an attempt to save him?
Do not give up and do not give in. To not loose faith.
139.) Why is it that Wiesel “could have wept with rage” when his father begs for rest upon arrival at Buchenwald?
That his father is givining into death. He is not trying anymore to continue. It is upsetting Wiesel.
140.) Why does Elie feel that he is arguing “with death itself”?
His father at this point is wanting to die. He feels that he is talking to the illusion of death.
141.) Why does Wiesel leave his father when the sirens wail, and how does he feel about this later?
He is trying to save himself. Then he feels guilty and feels like Rabbi's son who abandoned his father.
142.) Is his father angry at Elie for deserting him?
No, he has accepted death and just wants his son to survive.
143.) What emotions does Wiesel experience that last week as he watches his father die?
He is afraid that his father is actually going to die. He feels guilty that he cannot help his father. He feels embarrassed that his bunk mates are making fun of him. He feel ashamed that he couldn't do anything. He feels angry that he is forced to accept the death of his father.
144.) Why does Wiesel decide to be an “invalid”?
He does not want to leave his father. He knows that his father is dying and wants to spend time with him.
145.) Why doesn’t he see his father die and why doesn’t he cry?
His father has been taken to the crematorium. He cannot cry because he had no more tears and emotions were gone.
146.) What are Wiesel’s thoughts during the months after his father’s death?
Wiesel cannot feel anything. He could no longer feel emotion and just wants to leave.
147.) What would have happened if the children had gone to the assembly place, as ordered?
They would have been killed, instead the Germans tell them to return ot their blocks and they hids there.
148.) Why do the SS men flee the camp?
The resistence and the first American tank shows up and takes charge.
149.) What is Wiesel finally freed?
When the American tank shows up.
150.) Why is Wiesel sent to a hospital after his liberation?
He became ill because of some poisoning.
151.) The book ends with a haunting sense of hollowness. Why do you think the author ends with this tone?
That he will never forget and what he went through. He will not forget the experience in those 4 years.
Comprehension Questions are due Thursday, April 17th - NO LATE WORK FOR "NIGHT" WILL BE ACCEPTED OVER OR AFTER SPRING BREAK!
PREFACE to the NEW TRANSLATION:
1.) Read the preface by Elie Wiesel. Why do you suppose Wiesel imposed a ten-tear vow of silence?
He was still in shock. He was stunned by all of the experiences he has witnessed. He also took the vow in memory of al of the people that died.
2.) Why did he have trouble finding a publisher?
It too morbid and grotesque. It was too sensitive of a topic in the 50's and 60's and it wasn't popular.
3.) What is the “devastation that will never end”?
The memories and reflections of his experiences. It will never end, it is a part of him forever.
4.) What is Wiesel saying about how we can make sure that something this horrible is never repeated?
To inform everyone and to never forget so no one will have to go through this.
FOREWARD:
5.) Read the Foreword by Francois Mauriac. Why is Mauriac so moved by Wiesel’s book – of all the Holocaust literature he had seen?
He thinks that it is memorable. He is remembering the past. He thinks that it is more authentic for the view.
6.) How do you explain the “inconceivable passivity” with which the Jews of Sighet yield themselves to the Nazis?
Their culture states that they are not really aggressive. They are also in fear of being hung or killed. They didn't know what the Nazis were, they just followed through, for the hope.
7.) What aspects of Wiesel’s experience does Mauriac find most disturbing?
When the sister and the mother are burned to death, then the black smoke comes out. He also talks about children being hung and killed. People being transported in cattle cars. Also about the absence of God, how can God let something like this happen. The people dying is related to the death of Christ.
NIGHT:
MMM
8.) When and where does Elie Wiesel grow up? (city, country and time period) How old is he?
Elie grew up in Sighet in Transylvannia. He is 12 years old.
9.) Try to picture Elie’s childhood. How is his childhood like yours and how is it different?
His dad does not care about the family. He is devoted to God and the Church and is growing up in Transylvannia in Jewish tradition.
10.) Who is “Moshe the Beadle” and why does Wiesel begin the story with him?
Moishe is the mentor for Elie. Elie starts with Moishe because he is very important.
11.) What do Eliezer’s parents and the other in the community think of Moshe?
Moishe is the town fool. He has no money and is taken lightly.
12.) Why does Elie spend so much time with Moshe?
Elie looks upon Moishe as a religious mentor or leader
13.) What is Elie’s father’s profession?
14.) Is Elie’s father highly respected in the Jewish community?
Yes, Elie's father is a repected person in the community and in the church.
15.) What has happened to Moshe that caused a great change in him?
Moishe escaped and had watched people dig holes and get shot into them.
16.) How does this experience change Moshe?
Moishe had seen people get shot and even children and babies.
17.) How does the rest of the community react when he tells them what has happened to him?
They do not believe him because they think that it is just Moishe being himself.
18.) The Jews of Sighet are optimistic because of the news they hear on the radio in late 1942 and 1943. What is the news and why are they so optimistic?
19.) With an ironic tone, Wiesel says, “Besides, people were interested in everything – in strategy, in diplomacy, in politics, in Zionism – but not their own fate.” What does he mean?
20.) Berkovitz brings news from Budapest that anti-Semitism (hostility or discrimination against Jews) war is rampant. Why then, is “optimism soon revived”?
21.) Why do “the optimists rejoiced” even three days after the German soldiers appear in Sighet?
22.) Why is celebrating Passover like playing a “comedy”?
Their hearts are not in in. They are going through the motion, but they really do not care or not feeling it.
23.) What does the following mean? “On the seventh day of Passover the curtain rose.”
The Germans arrest the Jewish leaders of the community. The happiness was taken away and things got real.
24.) Name the decrees (laws) the Germans put into place.
Stay in the house for three days, or they would die.
They had to give up any jewelry, or die.
All of the Jews had to wear yellow stars.
25.) Describe the ghettos.
It is a community of Jewish surrounded by barb wires.
26.) How do the Jews of Sighet generally feel about the ghettos?
They think that it is a good think, because they are living amongst Jews. They do not have to live with the soldiers, they feel excluded from the hostile enviornment, they enjoy that.
27.) Why do the Jews of Sighet think they are being deported and why is their destination kept secret from them?
They are too close to the frontlines of war. They are being taken to Hungary to work in a brick factory.
28.) How could the Jews of Sighet have possibly escaped from the Germans?
They could have gone to the police officers. They could have also believed Moishe and they could have escaped.
29.) How do they prepare for deportation?
Just one backpack for person. They are not bringing personal items, just food and some clothes.
30.) Why is there “joy” when the signal finally comes for them to leave?
They think that anything is better than being in a crowd of people and not knowing what will happen next. They are relieved that the signal came out and they will not be miserable.
31.) How does Elie feel as he watches the procession or deportees?
32.) Who offers Elie and his family safe refuge?
Maria, the maid offers the family safe refuge.
33.) Why doesn’t Elie’s father accept the offer?
He is an elder, he needs to be the heroic figure of the community. He has to also save the rest of the community.
34.) On what day of the week is the family expelled and why is this ironic?
Saturday, because it is their day of rest. They are being forced to be expelled and to be moved to a camp.
35.) They spend 24 hours in a synagogue. What are the conditions like? Give examples.
The synagogue is messy. They are separating them by gender, male and female. It was ruined by German soldiers.
36.) How are the Jews moved out of Sighet?
They are being transported by cattle cars. They are being transported 80 persons a time.
37.) Why do you suppose no one tries to escape?
Because if you try to escape, they will be shot.
38.) Why does the Hungarian lieutenant move among the prisoners with a basket?
They are taking anything valuable that they have left like watches, gold, and silver.
39.) What actions do “those who no longer wished to taste the bitterness of terror” take?
They try to calm her down and being very obedient. They are trying to protect her.
40.) Who is Madame Schachter and why is she so upset?
She is separated from from her husband and her two other sons.
41.) How do the others treat her and why?
They tie her up and band her so that she won't talk anymore. She is terrifying everyone. Everyone is frightened by the crazy ld
42.) What is the first thing the prisoners see when they got to Birkenau?
They see a labor camp. They also spot a fireplace burning.
43.) What do they smell?
They smell burning flesh.
44.) Who are the SS men?
They are Hitler's soldiers. They were all forced to fight for their country or death.
45.) How do Elie and his father get separated from Mother and Tzipora?
The SS men separated the people by gender, men and women.
46.) What is Elie’s last memory of them?
Mom is stroking the hair. She is calming her down and letting her know that it will be ok.
47.) Why do some of the younger men want to attempt an escape?
Some men escape because they do not want to die like this. They feel that they should not be treated like this.
48.) Why don’t they go through with it?
They feel that they shouldn't be with this.
49.) What lies do Elie and his father tell to Dr. Mengale and why?
Elie is lying of being 18 and a farmer. Elie's father is lying about his occupation.
50.) Why does Elie’s father wish Elie has gone with his mother and why is this ironic?
To be safe with mom. And he also doesn't want to see his only son die. When he had the chance to save his family, he didn't follow through, now that he is about to die, he is wanting to save his kid.
51.) What do you suppose Elie would say to those who claim that innocent children were not murdered during the Holocaust?
He witnessed children being unloaded and being thrown into pits of fire. Also he was separated from his family and assumes that they died too.
52.) What is the Kaddish and why doesn’t’ Elie join his father in reciting it?
The Kaddish is a prayer for the dead. The father does not pray the Kaddish because it is like giving up and admiting that they would die.
53.) How do the prisoners who are already in the barracks treat the newcomers?
They are mean to them and give them demands. They hit them and beat theme up.
54.) What are Elie and the others ordered to do?
They are forced to take off their clothes. They have to only hold on to their belt and shoes. Then they go to the barber to get shaved.
55.) How does Elie change by the end of the first night? (physically, emotionally, and spirirtually)
Their tormented souls. He gives up hope of escaping and knows that they will die. He also gives up God, and losses his faith in God.
56.) How does Elie keep his his shoes from the “Kapos” at first?
He was in the mud. And in the mud, it disguised his shoes and made them look older.
57.) According to the SS officer, what is the only way to avoid the furnaces?
To work. They have to either work or die.
58.) Why does the gypsy strike Elie’s father and how does Elie react?
Because he asks for the bathrooms. He is scared of what might happen to him and he is no longer feeling the emotions.
59.) To what new camp are the prisoners taken?
From Birkanau to Aushwitz.
60.) Who is in charge of the block and what is his advice?
A young Polish guy. He advises to not loose faith and to help each other as a team.
61.) How does Elie become “A-7713”?
He feels like a prisoner more than a person this far.
62.) Describe “roll call”.
There are marches and songs. There are marching bands coming out and singing songs.
63.) Who is Stein and why does Elie lie to him?
A relative in the same family tree. He lies in order to make him feel better.
64.) Why does Stein stop coming to see Elie?
He realizes that they were lying to him. He has lost hope and given up.
65.) Akiba Drumer believes that God is testing the Jews and that this punishment they are enduring is actually a sign of love. What does Elie think of this theory?
They think that God is testing the Jews because it is a test to test their faith and continue believing
66.) How could Elie have bribed the assistant to arrange for him to go with his father to a “good unit”?
The shoes.
67.) Why doesn’t he try the bribe?
It was the only thing he had left.
68.) Where is music played in the camp?
It is played in the entrance of the camp. They call the entrance the "first block."
69.) Why can’t the musicians play Beethoven?
Jews were not allowed to play German music because they were Jews.
70.) Why is Elie sent to the dentist?
He is sent to the dentist to take out his golden teeth.
71.) Why is he so desperate to keep his tooth and why doesn’t he succeed in keeping it?
He might be able to use it in the future. It is one of his last possessions.
72.) Who beats Elie in front of the French girl and why?
Aryan because he was Jewish.
73.) Why is she afraid to speak to him?
Because he is Jewish and because he is just there.
74.) What advice does she give to Elie and what does this show about her?
To keep the anger and there is hope. She is very hopeful of what will happen.
75.) Why does Idek beat Elie’s father?
Idek sees that Elie's father isn't working faster than the others.
76.) Why is Elie angry at his father for getting beaten?
Because his dad is not trying to make things better and work faster.
77.) Why does Elie give his father “marching lessons”?
He cannot march in place. Fraunic beats his dad while the other are marching, because Elie wouldn't give up the gold crown.
78.) Why does Elie laugh at Idek and what is the result?
Elie is hooking up with a girl. He is laughing because he sent the commando away just to be with the girl.
79.) What do the air raid sirens signify?
There was a bombing. There were planes coming to bomb Buna.
80.) Why is this a particularly dangerous time for prisoners?
It is killing them. They are left by themselves, without any protecting. If a bomb goes off, they're dead.
81.) How is “terror stronger than hunger”?
They know that they could die. The fear of being shot or beaten up is stronger than being hungry. He has just been whipped 25 times, it is not worth it.
82.) How does the death of that one man affect Elie and how does he react when the air raid is over?
It shows him what would have happened if he tried to get the soup. It does not affect him, he knows that he shouldn't go for the soup. It is normal for him to witness someone die.
83.) Who are some of the people who die on the gallows?
Young boy. He was hanged because he stole during the air raid.
Pipel, for stealing weapons.
84.) What phrase so many repeat before their deaths?
Long Live Liberty!
85.) Why are people hanged rather than being shot or killed some other way?
It is painful and haunting. You see the suffering and people slowing dying.
86.) Whose death affects Elie the most and why?
Pipel, because he was a young and innocent kid. Even the person in charge will not hang him.
87.) Why does Elie find the soup “excellent” after one execution, but tasting of “corpses” after another?
He is remembering the death of the little kid. The first, he witnessed a normal person hung. He realizes that the soldiers do not care how old the person is, because of the little kid.
88.) What is Rosh Hashanah?
The Jewish New Year.
89.) Why do you suppose even “Kapos, functionaries of death” come to the Rosh Hashanah service?
They came to watch the Jews and protection. They are there to participate and be faithful and to celebrate the New Year.
90.) What is going through Elie’s mind?
He is loosing faith. He feels that he is alone and he has lost himself. He feels defeated.
91.) Is Elie in the minority when he “rebelled” inwardly and why does he call the place where the Kews meet to pray a “mirage”?
A mirage is an illuision. They think that they see hope but to be true, it is not realy there.
92.) What does Elie mean when he says of his father, “We had never understood each other so clearly”?
They say this after the hangings. They notice that they love each other and that they are thankful for being together and stil have each other.
93.) What is Yom Kippur?
A day of atonement where Jews fast.
94.) Why doesn’t Elie fast?
It is a symbol of rebellion. He is already starving, there is no need to fast. He is rebelling against God.
95.) What is the “fine New Year’s gift” the SS gives the prisoners?
They give them selection.
96.) What advice does Elie get from the head of the block about avoiding selection?
To run as fast as you can adn to run straight ahead. Also to give yourself some color before selection.
97.) What does Wiesel mean when he says, as the prisoners stand naked, “This must show how one stands at the last judgment”?
This is the last judgemennt either staying alive or dying.
98.) What is Dr. Mengele’s attitude during the “selection”?
Dr. Mengele is acting like it is a game. He makes them do unneccessary things.
99.) What are Elie’s thoughts as he goes through the “race”?
His head is spinning. He keeps on runing and talking to himself to make it through.
100.) What sorts of “presents” and “inheritance” gifts does Wiesel’s father give Elie and why?
He gives him bread and a piece of rubber. He brought bread becasue he was hungry.
He also gives him a knife and a spoon.
101.) Why does Elie return them to his father?
Elie returns them because he doesn't need them. He will not take things from his dad and acknowledge that he is weak.
102.) What does this show about how life changes when mere survival is a struggle?
You actually need survival tools instead of real "inheritance." He needs real tools in order to survive.
103.) What happens to many of the prisoners when they lose faith?
They also loose hope and te will to fight. They are giving up and given up in selection.
104.) Why does Wiesel tell the story of Akiba Dumer – and how everyone forgets to say the Kaddish for him?
He is a perfect example of someone loosing faith. They lost their faith and their brotherhood. It was easy to forget someone.
105.) How does Wiesel end up in the hospital?
His foot is sweliing in the winter. Probably, he was infected.
106.) What decision is Wiesel faced with while he is in the hospital?
If he should leave and go or stay in the hospital.
107.) What is Elie’s choice and why does he choose this option?
He chooses to wait it out and stay in the hospital. Because he doesn't trust his neighbor. He learns not to trust everyone.
108.) Why is the camp being evacuated?
The Red Army was coming near them. The war was approaching the concentration camp.
109.) Why do the prisoners want the Russians to arrive first?
To rescue them. if they don't show up first, they will be dead or be forced to fight.
110.) What is meant by the question the prisoners ask: “were they (SS) going to let the Jews hear the twelfth stroke sound?”
Everybody was supposed to be killed by midnight. The prisoners ask the SS officers because they wanted to see if they were going to kill them or not.
111.) How does the “face of the camp” change on the morning of the evacuation?
They change clothing and get more clothing. They get food and whatever they take. It kind of turns into a free for all for survival.
112.) Why does the head of the block order the prisoners to clean the floor, and how do you think the prisoners feel about this task?
The head of the block orders the prisoners to clean the floor to make the Russian soldiers think, when they arrive, that they were men. Even though they were prisoners taking care of themselves, they were treated as men. This is ironic for the prisoners because they were treated as animals.
113.) Reread the description of the evacuation at the end of the chapter. Why does the author choose to use a series of short sentences in this passage? What is the effect?
It is happening fast. It gives you a sense of urgency when you read it. You kind of relate what the characters are going through.
114.) What does Wiesel mean by the observations of the SS men “Their fingers on the triggers, they did not deprive themselves of this pleasure”?
Whoever stopped running or slows down, they get shot. The fingers on the triggers suggest that the SS officers are still in charge. If any prisoner messes with them, that prisoner will be shot.
115.) What is sadism and where do you see evidence of it in the novel?
Saddistict people find pleasure in giving pain to other people. They are pleased when they hurt others. Froe example, the SS officer hurts Elie's father. They do not give bread to the prisoners. The doctor does not help the father. When they abused their power to not help the weak, no empathy, no mercy.
116.) What happens to Zalman?
Zalman has stomach pains, and he takes his pants off probably to relieve the pain, but then falls over on the ground and dies just because of being trampled over by the thousands of people that are marching forward.
117.) In what way are Wiesel and the other Jews who keep rushing onward “masters of nature” -then in the morning “without strength, without illusions”?
Wiesel and the other Jews were "masters of nature" because they have gone through so much and are so desensitized that they become strong against abuse and the harsh environment. Then in the morning, they were without strength because they were running all night and became exhausted after the harsh run.
118.) How do Wiesel and his father help each other stay alive?
Wiesel and his father help each other stay alive by looking out for each other and keeping each other awake so they both don't go to sleep.
119.) Why does Wiesel tell the story of Rabbi Eliahou?
Wiesel tells the story of Rabbi Eliahou because the story shows what would happen if Wiesel and his father would be separated.
120.) Why is he glad that the rabbi “should continue to look for his beloved son”?
Wiesel is glad that the rabbi continues to look for his beloved son because since it mirrors Wiesel's relationship with his father, it gives him the peace of mind that his father would search for him if Wiesel would be separated or lost.
121.) Why do you think that “sons abandoned their fathers’ remains without a tear”?
I think that the sons abandoned their fathers' like that because they might feel that their fathers are holding them back, or they are used to it, or because they can't do anything about it.
122.) How does Wiesel avoid suffocation?
Wiesel avoids suffocation when he separates the bodies above him and makes himself an air hole to breathe through.
123.) Why does Wiesel think he is hallucinating?
Wiesel thinks he is hallucinating because he hears the music and the violin in a terrible situation, so he assumes immediately he is hallucinating.
124.) Why is Juliek playing his violin in this terrible situation?
Juliek is playing the violin in this terrible situation because he plays it for the dead, and for himself because he knows that either the violin is either going to be taken away, or he dies, so he would rather die happy.
125.) What happens to Juliek
Juliek ends up dead on the floor next to his trampled violin.
126.) How does Wiesel’s father avoid being “selected” at Gleiwitz and why does Wiesel run after him to the left?
Wiesel's father avoids being "selected" by being taken by Wiesel and crossed over to the right side, where all the healthy people were, during the confusion. Wiesel runs off after his father to the left so he won't be separated by him and so he can save him.
127.) How does Wiesel convey a sense of hopelessness in this final section of the book?
Wiesel conveys a sense of hopelessness in the section of the book because he gives the impression that everyone is waiting to die because there is nothing to live for.
128.) Why do the two men try to throw Wiesel’s father from the carriage?
The two men tried to through Wiesel's father out the carriage because he looked dead and was barely breathing.
129.) Why do the living “rejoice” when the order comes to throw out the corpses?
The living rejoice because they would have more room because the corpses would not take unneeded space.
130.) What is the author trying to say about the prisoners at this point?
The author tries to say about the prisoners that they act like animals, only caring for themselves, and taking whatever they can get.
131.) How do the prisoners in the wagon act like animals?
They only care for themselves and act selfishly against each other, not helping each other out, basically making the prisoners playing a free-for-all in survival.
132.) Why do the German workmen take a “lively interest in this spectacle” when they have merely stopped and stared at marching prisoners before?
The German workmen take an interest now because it is their way of making fun of the hungry Jews. The German workmen don't sympathize or empathize with the Jews, so they make fun of them.
133.) Why doesn’t Wiesel join in this scramble for food?
Wiesel doesn't join to scramble for food because he knows he is not strong enough to fight for some bread.
134.) How are Meir and his son similar to other fathers and sons Wiesel describes?
They either get father or closer about because of the situation.
135.) What is the author saying about how the concentration camp affects the bonds between loved ones?
That everyone either gets closer or farther depending on their communication.
136.) How does Meir Katz save Elie Wiesel’s life?
Meir Katz helps Elie and can only do so much.
137.) What advice does Wiesel’s father give Katz in an attempt to save him?
Do not give up and do not give in. To not loose faith.
139.) Why is it that Wiesel “could have wept with rage” when his father begs for rest upon arrival at Buchenwald?
That his father is givining into death. He is not trying anymore to continue. It is upsetting Wiesel.
140.) Why does Elie feel that he is arguing “with death itself”?
His father at this point is wanting to die. He feels that he is talking to the illusion of death.
141.) Why does Wiesel leave his father when the sirens wail, and how does he feel about this later?
He is trying to save himself. Then he feels guilty and feels like Rabbi's son who abandoned his father.
142.) Is his father angry at Elie for deserting him?
No, he has accepted death and just wants his son to survive.
143.) What emotions does Wiesel experience that last week as he watches his father die?
He is afraid that his father is actually going to die. He feels guilty that he cannot help his father. He feels embarrassed that his bunk mates are making fun of him. He feel ashamed that he couldn't do anything. He feels angry that he is forced to accept the death of his father.
144.) Why does Wiesel decide to be an “invalid”?
He does not want to leave his father. He knows that his father is dying and wants to spend time with him.
145.) Why doesn’t he see his father die and why doesn’t he cry?
His father has been taken to the crematorium. He cannot cry because he had no more tears and emotions were gone.
146.) What are Wiesel’s thoughts during the months after his father’s death?
Wiesel cannot feel anything. He could no longer feel emotion and just wants to leave.
147.) What would have happened if the children had gone to the assembly place, as ordered?
They would have been killed, instead the Germans tell them to return ot their blocks and they hids there.
148.) Why do the SS men flee the camp?
The resistence and the first American tank shows up and takes charge.
149.) What is Wiesel finally freed?
When the American tank shows up.
150.) Why is Wiesel sent to a hospital after his liberation?
He became ill because of some poisoning.
151.) The book ends with a haunting sense of hollowness. Why do you think the author ends with this tone?
That he will never forget and what he went through. He will not forget the experience in those 4 years.