Elie Wiesel's The Perils of Indifference Speech

Questions and Answers

Which statement best identifies the central idea of the text?

The Holocaust exemplifies the consequences of how apathy towards human suffering can cause tragedy. (correct)

The Holocaust serves as a lesson in history.

Humanity must never forget its past.

Indifference can lead to suffering.

Which passage from the text best supports the answer to Part A?

The struggle for human rights is ongoing.

We must remember the past.

During the darkest of times, inside the ghettos and death camps...we felt abandoned, forgotten. (Paragraph 13) (correct)

Indifference is humanity's greatest sin.

What is the meaning of 'plight' in paragraph 10?

anguish

Which quote from paragraph 10 best supports the answer to Part A?

Whose pain is magnified when he or she feels forgotten. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Elie Wiesel believe indifference is the most dangerous emotion?

because it allows suffering to continue Signup and view all the answers

Which detail from the text best supports the answer to Part A?

Looking away from victims is easier. Signup and view all the answers

How do paragraphs 15-16 contribute to the development of the text's central idea?

They highlight America's indifference during the Holocaust by providing examples such as Roosevelt's flawed response. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Central Idea of the Speech

The Holocaust serves as a powerful example of the devastating impact of indifference towards human suffering.
Apathy can be a precursor to tragedy, illustrating humanity's neglect of those in desperate need.

Supporting Evidence

Key quote: "During the darkest of times, inside the ghettos and death camps...we felt abandoned, forgotten." This statement reflects the profound sense of isolation experienced by victims.

Meaning of "Plight"

The term "plight" is synonymous with anguish, capturing the deep suffering faced by individuals during crises.

Supporting Quote on "Plight"

A poignant quote: "whose pain is magnified when he or she feels forgotten" emphasizes the intensifying effect of neglect on suffering individuals.

Indifference as a Dangerous Emotion

Elie Wiesel identifies indifference as the most perilous emotion because it perpetuates continued suffering without intervention or acknowledgment.

Supporting Detail on Indifference

A compelling observation: "It is so much easier to look away from victims...Their hidden or even visible anguish is of no interest." This highlights how society often turns a blind eye to those in distress.

Contribution of Specific Paragraphs to Central Idea

Paragraphs 15-16 illustrate America's indifference during the Holocaust through notable examples.
The U.S. was aware of Nazi concentration camps but failed to take decisive action, leading to a flawed legacy for President Roosevelt.
Although Roosevelt mobilized efforts against fascism and dictatorship, he neglected the immediate plight of Jewish refugees.
Specific instance: 1,000 Jewish refugees were turned away from St. Louis and sent back to Germany, questioning Roosevelt's character as a compassionate leader.
These details depict how both the U.S. government and its president's indifference contributed to the suffering of Jewish individuals during WWII.

Description

Dive into the powerful themes of Elie Wiesel's speech, 'The Perils of Indifference'. This quiz will help you explore the central ideas and supporting passages that illustrate the tragedy of apathy towards human suffering. Test your understanding and reflection on historical consequences through key excerpts from the text.