Confrontation and Reflection in Tragedy

In 1939, Joseph and his family are on a ship in the Atlantic Ocean. Joseph's father, Aaron Landau, panics, fearing the ship is returning to Germany. Joseph calms him by explaining the ship is slowing for a funeral at sea for Professor Weiler, who died of cancer. Despite his condition, Aaron decides to attend the funeral, recalling his time in Dachau. During the ceremony, a conflict arises when a Nazi flag is proposed to cover the body, but Captain Schroeder intervenes. After the funeral, Joseph's father reflects on his past as the ship resumes its journey to Cuba.

What is Aaron Landau's initial fear on the ship?

• That they are running out of food

• That there is a storm approaching

• That the ship is sinking

• That they are being taken back to Germany

How does Joseph try to calm his father?

• By offering him food

• By promising to protect him

• By explaining the ship is slowing for a funeral

• By telling him they are going to a safe place

Who was Professor Vyler?

• A fellow passenger who died of cancer

• A Nazi officer on board

• Joseph's uncle

• The captain of the ship

Why does Joseph's father decide to attend the funeral?

• He saw too many men die without funerals at Dachau

• He knew Professor Vyler personally

• He wants to confront the Nazis

• He is curious about the ceremony

What tradition do the passengers follow at the funeral?

• Singing hymns

• Ripping their garments

• Wearing black clothes

• Lighting candles

How does Captain Schroeder handle the confrontation over the Nazi flag?

• He allows the flag to be used

• He leaves the decision to the passengers

• He orders the flag to be removed

• He ignores the situation

What does Joseph reflect on after the funeral?

• His father's past and their journey to Cuba

• The other passengers on the ship

• The beauty of the ocean

• The kindness of the captain