211k views
0 votes
5. Early in the book, Eliezer says his father "rarely displayed his feelings, not even within

his family, and was more involved in the welfare of others than with that of his own kin" (p. 4). When they begin the march to the small ghetto, Eliezer sees his father cry for the first time (p. 19). In what ways does the Holocaust change their relationship?

User Dingle
by
7.7k points

1 Answer

2 votes
The Holocaust changes Eliezer's relationship with his father in several ways. Initially, Eliezer and his father have a distant relationship, with his father being more concerned with the welfare of others than his own family. However, the experience of the Holocaust brings them closer together, as they rely on each other for survival and comfort in the face of extreme suffering.
During their time in the concentration camps, Eliezer and his father support each other emotionally and physically. Eliezer helps his father during moments of weakness, such as when he falls ill, and his father provides him with the motivation to keep going. They become each other's only source of comfort and support in a world of cruelty and suffering.
However, the Holocaust also puts a strain on their relationship. Eliezer sometimes feels anger and resentment toward his father for not being able to protect him or provide for him. At times, he even considers abandoning his father to increase his own chances of survival.
Overall, the Holocaust changes Eliezer's relationship with his father from a distant and unemotional one to a close and supportive one, but not without moments of tension and conflict.
User NewbieDave
by
7.7k points