Front

What is Yom Kippur?

Back

Yom Kippur is the Day of Atonement in Judaism, considered the holiest day of the year, dedicated to repentance, prayer, and fasting.

Front

Why does Elie choose not to fast on Yom Kippur?

Back

Elie chooses not to fast because he has lost his faith in God and feels it is a private protest against God's silence.

Front

What is the significance of the dentist's inspection in the camp?

Back

The dentist's inspection is significant as it highlights the dehumanization of the prisoners, focusing on extracting gold teeth or crowns rather than caring for their health.

Front

Who is Stein and what role does he play in Elie's story?

Back

Stein is a relative of Elie and his father, whom they encounter in Auschwitz. He represents a connection to their past and the hope of family.

Front

What does the train symbolize in Elie's journey?

Back

The train symbolizes the loss of freedom and the beginning of a harrowing journey into the unknown, representing the transport of Jews to concentration camps.

Front

What does the young French-woman's secret reveal about life in the camp?

Back

Her secret reveals the complexities of survival in the camp, including the need for deception and the hidden identities of individuals.

Front

What is the role of faith in Elie's life during the early chapters?

Back

Faith plays a crucial role in Elie's life, initially providing hope and strength, but later becomes a source of conflict as he grapples with God's silence.

Front

How does Elie's relationship with his father evolve in the camps?

Back

Elie's relationship with his father evolves from one of dependence to mutual support, highlighting the importance of family bonds in survival.

Front

What does the term 'dehumanization' mean in the context of the Holocaust?

Back

Dehumanization refers to the process of stripping individuals of their human qualities, treating them as less than human, which was prevalent during the Holocaust.

Front

What is the significance of the camp's name 'Auschwitz'?

Back

Auschwitz is significant as it became one of the most notorious concentration and extermination camps during the Holocaust, symbolizing the horrors of genocide.