His words were, "'No. You're eighteen . . . No. Not fifty. You're forty. Do you hear? Eighteen and forty.'"
He defines the peak of humanity at this point in the chapter for his heroic advice. Age seemed to mean a difference between life and death, and he had determined the fate of Elie and his father, because immediately after they had given their "age" they were directed to barracks, and then the concentration camp rather than the furnace.
Also, (not related to the info above) it seems as if Elie's lies have naturally improved for the sake of protecting himself and his father, and with knowledge of what they'd be confined to if he tells the truth. This develops as he adjusted to this new way of living (transporting to a concentration camp.) He lies about the ages (which he was told to do), but after that he lies about his profession and other personal information without hesitation.
Diana, wow I had not really put in much thought about the inmate who told Elie and his father to lie about their age. But it's a really interesting perspective. I agree that age meant a difference between life and death, along with some other factors of course. I liked how you made that insight, it really goes to show that every little detail in this book counts.
ReplyDeleteI did not even think twice about the inmate who helped Elie and his father. It is a very rare bright spot in a very dark situation. I also agree that Elie has done a lot to adapt and survive in his situation. He has become very good at realizing the things that may get him in trouble or killed and managed to stay alive.
ReplyDeleteI like how you found the small detail of the positives of humanity within an overwhelming amount of negatives of this book. And even though this act may not seem like much, it really did save the lives of two people with just a number and profession.
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