The Librarian of Auschwitz

Dita is relentlessly curious about the death by suicide of her beloved Fredy Hirsch. Using examples from the book, explain how her doubt that he killed himself helps to build the theme of the book. What has Dita learned in the end about his death, and how does it affect her understanding of the war and of herself?

Rudi Rosenberg, a Jew, works for the Nazis as well as the resistance. In an essay, show how these competing lifestyles inform his character. Describe how these two conflicting parts of Rudi’s existence in the camp drive him to eventually escape. What is the turning point, and how does it impact his feelings about the possibility that he will fail and die?

Based on the descriptions of Viktor’s love for Renee, do you believe his intentions are cruel or loving? Is there any evidence in the text that demonstrates that Renee loves him, too? How does Renee behave after Viktor dies and what does her behavior suggest about love and war?

Death is an important symbolic character in the story. Choose three characters, and using concrete examples from the book, explain their relationship with death. Are they in denial? Do they grow fearful, angry or accepting? What is their view of their situation and the risks they are willing to take to survive, even if death is a possible outcome?

Dita is in charge of eight books, and she lovingly cares for each one, but one of them becomes her favorite. In a two-part essay, explain why Dita loves The Adventures of the Good Soldier Švejk. 

Joseph Mengele was one of the most feared and hated of all the Nazis. Dita believes he is watching her. Explain how her fear of him shapes her movements around Auschwitz, and what she realizes in the end. How does Mengele symbolically represent the forces of death and evil through Dita’s realization?

Auschwitz is filled with many secrets. Identify one character who keeps a secret, and discuss how that secret affects their decisions, their behavior, their conscience, and their relationships. Use direct quote from the book to back up your assertions. 

Dita is a character of great modesty and moral courage. She is entrusted with the books, even though having them on her person could have sent her to her grave. Write an essay about a time you were entrusted with a task, or had to make a principled choice about something in your life, and discuss what you might have lost by doing the right thing, even if the consequences might have or did cause you harm.