Final answer:
Elie Wiesel lies about his age and occupation to Dr. Mengele to seem more suitable for labor and increase his chances of survival in the concentration camps.
Step-by-step explanation:
When questioned by Dr. Mengele, Elie Wiesel, the author and protagonist of 'Night', lies about his age and occupation to increase his chances of survival. At the time, Elie is only 15, but he claims to be 18, which is considered a more suitable age for labor. As for his occupation, he claims to be a farmer, rather than a student, thinking that it will make him seem more physically capable and therefore useful in the concentration camp. The cruel imperative of the camps was survival, and Elie believed that appearing older and more physically able would spare him from being sent to the gas chambers, which was the fate of those deemed unfit for work.