Everything Is Illuminated

Throughout Everything is Illuminated, Alex refers to Jonathan as the “hero,” implying that he is the protagonist of the novel. However, it could be argued that Alex, instead, is the protagonist. Argue for one of these two characters as the protagonist of the novel.

When Lista tells her story, she makes a point of directing it at Alex and ignoring Jonathan. Grandfather seems to support her choice, gesturing to Alex and saying, “Tell him.” Why is it so important to these two characters that Alex hears this story? Why is he the focus of their attention?

Analyze Safran Foer’s use of a nonlinear narrative. What is the effect of this method of storytelling on the reader? Why might Safran Foer have chosen to construct his narrative in this way?