Final answer:
Disbelief acts as a motif in the first chapter of 'Night' by illustrating the community's denial of the Holocaust. It emphasizes themes like the fragility of peace and the dangers of ignorance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The motif of disbelief serves a significant role in the first chapter of Night, which can be understood as a recurring element that contributes to the development of the book's theme. This disbelief is manifested in the characters' initial denial of the severity of the Holocaust, despite the warnings and escalating dangers. The continuous repetition of doubt and denial among the community members, including the protagonist Eliezer and his family, underscores a sense of complacency and highlights the tragic irony of the situation. As the community slowly comes to realize the truth, the motif of disbelief evolves, leading readers to a deeper understanding of themes such as the fragility of peace and the potential consequences of ignorance and inaction.