Elie Wiesel's Night Study Guide Questions

Questions and Answers

Why did Eliezer and his father lie to Dr. Mengele about their ages?

They gave an older and younger age, if you couldn't work because you were too young or old you were sent to be killed.

What is the Kaddish? What does Eliezer question about the recitation?

The Kaddish is an ancient Jewish prayer mostly done in a synagogue. Eliezer wonders how God could allow such suffering to happen to His people.

Why does Eliezer's father ask him, 'Do you remember Mrs. Schachter in the train?'?

Because she mentioned the flames on the way to the first camp, and she was right about the fire.

What does Eliezer repeatedly say about the many terrible things that he has seen?

'Never shall I forget'. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Eliezer compare their situation to a dream?

Because it is unrealistic and horrid; he doesn't want it to be real and is still in shock. Signup and view all the answers

What two choices did the German officer give after telling them they were in Auschwitz?

Work or they would head to the crematorium. Signup and view all the answers

When his father is beaten, why does Eliezer not react?

Because he is still in shock. Signup and view all the answers

What is ironic about the inscription on Auschwitz' iron gate?

There was no place without danger of death (The sign said 'Danger of death'). Signup and view all the answers

Why does Eliezer lie to Stein about his family?

To give him hope. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Elie Wiesel's Night - Chapter 3 Study Notes

Eliezer and his father lie about their ages to Dr. Mengele to avoid being sent to death; an age deemed too young or too old meant instant execution.
The Kaddish is an ancient Jewish prayer, typically recited in synagogues, which Eliezer questions in light of the atrocities they are facing, struggling with the belief in a compassionate God amidst suffering.
Eliezer's father recalls Mrs. Schachter's earlier warnings about flames during the train journey as a haunting reminder of their grim reality in the camps.
Eliezer frequently repeats the phrase "Never shall I forget," emphasizing the indelible impact of the horrors he has witnessed.
He perceives their nightmarish experiences as dream-like, reflecting a sense of disbelief and an unwillingness to accept the grim reality of their situation.
Upon arriving in Auschwitz, the German officer presents two stark choices: work or face the crematorium, highlighting the brutal conditions faced by the inmates.
Eliezer's shock prevents him from reacting when his father is beaten, illustrating the numbing effects of trauma on individuals in extreme situations.
The inscription over Auschwitz' iron gate ironically reads "Arbeit Macht Frei" ("Work Sets You Free"), contrasting with the grim truth that death is a constant threat within the camp.
Eliezer lies to Stein about his family's safety to provide a semblance of hope, reflecting the desperate need for emotional support among the prisoners.

Description

This flashcard quiz focuses on the critical themes and events from Chapter 3 of Elie Wiesel's 'Night'. It explores pivotal moments that reflect the struggles and questions faced by Eliezer and his father during their harrowing experiences. Test your knowledge on significant elements such as the Kaddish and the reasoning behind their deception to Dr. Mengele.