Group Reader Response LC #1: Dialectical Journal Practice

1.Critical Stance

Wiesel showed that the Jews were strong and independent. They believed in their religion heavily and knew that they were protected by their gods and one another. When news comes to town whether it is bad or good, there are two types of reactions to the situation that the Jews are going to be in. Some people act in fear, or disbelief. They feel very certain that this situation won’t come to the town. To them it’s a total lie, a crazy thought, it’s just another way to get the Jews in trouble. However others like Eliezer, response to the situation a little bit differently. They have trust and faith in others and their Jewish religion that this is a sign. They don’t act in fear, or disbelief, they act with confidence and hope.

2.Dialectical Journal Entries

a.     Why you do pray? he asked me, after a moment. Why did I pray? A strange question. Why did I live? Why did I breathe?

This quote from the book is important because it tells you that Eliezer is thinking deeply about life and what each action means each day. This quotes also helps him understand how people around him his friends, family, and community effect him and his decisions. This quote also relevant to the critical stance.

b.     Water! Mummy! Water!

This quote represents how the Jews could only provide so much for their children. They were being sent on transportation vehicles not knowing the condition or what to bring. These Hungarian soldiers didn’t care about the people feeling and how they felt.

c.      When is your turn coming? I asked my father. The day after tomorrow

This quote means that the Jews know that they are being taken away but they still stand strong and believe that the journey will be safe. Eliezer is protecting him self from what is to come.

d.     But we had reached a station: Those who were next to the windows told us its name: “Auschwitz”

This quote embodies how that that sign is the beginning of what is yet to come in this camp. It tells you what the rest of book is going to be about, just by the quote.  It symbolizes how these Jews feel and how they will feel.

e.     You must never lose faith, even when the sword hangs over your head. That’s the teaching of our sages

This quote represents how even though they are in the concentration camp and could die at any moment, the Jews should never lose sight of hope. Live each moment, and believe in your religion.