Night, By: Elie Wiesel

Night, by Elie Wiesel, is a short novel about a teenage boy’ struggle to survive in a concentration camp under Nazi control in the 1940’s.  Elie’s first person point of view adds to the traumatic tone of the novel and actions happening to him and his family.  Elie says good-bye to his family and describes the other holocaust victims sharing a bunkhouse with his father and how they attempt to support each other and protect the concept of humanity. However, as the novel progress, any human like characteristics are stripped from each character and the daily struggle become surviving starvation, murder, disease, and depression.

There are many traumatic events that occur in the first of many testimonials by Elie Wiesel, which destroy his faith in God and man.  His struggle to overcome fear, destruction caused by others, and his dwindling faith is felt through powerful words and heart breaking scenes.

Themes:

Man versus Man – 1.) Nazi armies destroy the Jewish community where Elie grew up and SS soldiers physically destroy his family and friends in their destructive frenzy to eradicate the Jewish faith and followers; 2.) Elie has to deal with bunkmates attempting to kill him and his father for food and supplies. 

Man versus God – Elie illuminates the audience with his inner dialogue concerning his faith and wonders how his god can do this to faithful followers.  His faith, which he is being persecuted for, is wavering and creates a disconnection between his mind and soul.

Man versus Self – Elie struggles daily with the need to survive and support his father.  His biggest struggle with his self is letting his father go when the situation arises where he cannot save him without sacrificing himself as well.

I would highly recommend this book and this author to anyone.  It has examples of human spirit rising above the most difficult, traumatic situations in history and turning it into a learning experience for others.  We cannot learn where we are going until we understand where we have come from.  I believe Elie Wiesel believes this and wishes to educate others on the events that occurred in our history to avoid it happening again.