Character Interactions during Nazi Occupation

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Questions and Answers

Given the socio-political context of Nazi-occupied Copenhagen, what is the most likely reason Mrs. Johansen and Mrs. Rosen were drinking 'hot water flavored with herbs' instead of real coffee or tea?

The Nazi regime had imposed import restrictions, leading to a scarcity of coffee and tea, forcing civilians to find local substitutes. (correct)
Mrs. Johansen and Mrs. Rosen were participating in a health fad promoting herbal infusions over caffeinated drinks.
The scarcity was artificially created by Danish merchants to drive up prices of what little coffee and tea remained, making it unaffordable for most.
A nationwide boycott of traditional beverages was in effect as a form of passive resistance against the occupying forces.

Considering the surreptitious nature of De Frie Danske and the risks associated with its readership, what inference can be drawn about Mrs. Johansen's decision to bring up the bombings in Hillerød and Nørrebro in front of Annemarie, despite pretending to be engrossed in unpacking her schoolbooks?

Her primary intention was to inform Mrs. Rosen about the incidents, with Annemarie's presence being incidental and the pretense of unpacking serving to downplay the importance of the discussion. (correct)
She believed that involving Annemarie in discussions about the Resistance would desensitize her to the dangers and prepare her for potential future involvement.
She was subtly testing Annemarie's loyalty and trustworthiness to gauge whether she could be relied upon in more sensitive matters related to the Resistance.
She misjudged Annemarie's awareness and maturity, assuming she wouldn't grasp the significance of the conversation or the implications of the illegal newspaper.

What is the most critical implication of Kirsti's exaggerated account of the soldier incident on the Johansen family, given the prevailing climate of fear and suspicion?

It reveals underlying tensions within the family dynamic, exposing Annemarie's fearfulness and Ellen's vulnerability in contrast to Kirsti's bravado.
It underscores the normalization of military presence in daily life, demonstrating a conditioned acceptance of authority among younger citizens.
It introduces a heightened risk of attracting undue attention from the occupying forces, potentially leading to increased scrutiny of the Johansen family and their associates. (correct)
It highlights Kirsti's resilient and unfazed nature, suggesting a generation gap in perceived threat levels during the occupation.

Considering Annemarie's deliberate attempt to downplay the encounter with the soldiers, what underlying psychological mechanism is she most likely employing, and what purpose does it serve?

Rationalization, to minimize the perceived danger and reassure herself and others that the situation is under control, thereby reducing their anxiety levels. (B) Signup and view all the answers

If the soldiers are described as 'edgy because of the latest Resistance incidents', what does this imply about the broader strategic goals of the Danish Resistance at this time?

The Resistance sought to create an environment of instability and uncertainty to undermine the occupying forces' authority and make it more difficult for them to govern effectively. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why might the author choose to include details such as the soldiers looking like 'a silly giraffe'? What literary purpose does this serve, considering the serious context?

To juxtapose the banality of evil with the innocence of childhood, highlighting the absurdity of the occupation and its impact on ordinary lives. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Considering the penalties for harboring Jewish refugees under Nazi occupation, what is the most probable reason Mrs. Rosen is at the Johansen's apartment, given the presence of soldiers on the corner?

Mrs. Rosen's apartment was compromised, making it unsafe for her to remain there, so she sought refuge with the Johansen family. (D) Signup and view all the answers

If Annemarie perceives the soldier on the corner as resembling 'a silly giraffe,' and yet understands the gravity of the situation, which cognitive process BEST describes this dichotomy?

Cognitive dissonance, wherein she experiences psychological stress from holding conflicting beliefs about the soldier's appearance and the threat he represents. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Nazi occupation

The period when Nazi Germany controlled Denmark during World War II.

Annemarie's mother

Mrs. Johansen, a protective figure concerned about her family's safety.