Questions and Answers
Why was Moshe the Beadle important to Elie Wiesel?
Moshe became his cabbalist, or instructor in mystical faith.
What did Moshe the Beadle tell the people on his return from being deported?
The foreign Jews dug their own graves and were killed.
Give a precise description of Elie's father.
He displayed little emotion, even to his family. He was consulted by people in Sighet for advice. He was a shopkeeper.
Describe Moshe the Beadle.
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How many people believed Moshe's story and prepared to leave Sighet?
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What major world event was going on in Chapter 1?
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What years does Chapter 1 cover?
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How did the German soldiers act when they first arrived in Sighet? Why did they act this way?
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Who were the Hungarian police according to Elie Wiesel?
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Did Elie's father order his family to go into hiding with Martha?
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Describe one technique used by the German army to psychologically abuse the Jews of Sighet before they deported them.
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How many sisters does Eliezer have?
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According to Moshe, which is more important, asking God questions or asking God the 'right' questions?
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How did Elie's father react at the time of deportation by the Hungarian police?
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Learn the following events in chronological order:
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Study Notes
Elie Wiesel and Moshe the Beadle
- Moshe the Beadle served as Elie's instructor in mystical faith, guiding him in spirituality.
- Upon returning from deportation, Moshe warned the Sighet community about the impending danger, but few believed him.
Description of Elie's Father
- Elie's father was a shopkeeper known for his lack of emotional expression, even in family matters.
- He was respected in Sighet, often consulted for advice, showcasing a strong character.
Moshe the Beadle's Characteristics
- Moshe was employed at the synagogue and lived in poverty, yet people respected him and did not feel ashamed of his status.
- He was timid, had dreamy eyes, and communicated little, depicting a gentle but serious demeanor.
Community Response to Warnings
- Very few people heeded Moshe’s warnings upon his return, reflecting disbelief or denial about the situation.
Historical Context
- The events of Chapter 1 unfolded during World War II, a critical global conflict influencing the lives of those in Sighet.
- The timeline of Chapter 1 spans from 1941 to 1945, covering the buildup to the Holocaust.
Conduct of German Soldiers
- German soldiers initially appeared calm and polite in Sighet; they even smiled and engaged positively with locals.
- This behavior was a tactic designed to gain the residents' trust and lower their defenses.
Role of Hungarian Police
- Elie developed a deep hatred for the Hungarian police, identifying them as his first oppressors in the Nazi regime.
Family Dynamics
- Elie's father refused to hide with their maid Martha, showcasing a courageous but tragic decision against fear.
Psychological Abuse Techniques
- The German army used the synagogue as a temporary holding area, locking Jewish residents inside for 24 hours.
- This confinement included degrading treatment, such as having to use the corners of the room as bathrooms.
Eliezer's Siblings
- Eliezer has three sisters named Bea, Hilda, and Tzipora, indicating a close family structure prior to deportation.
Theological Insight
- Moshe advocated for asking God the right questions rather than simply any questions, emphasizing the importance of depth in spirituality.
Emotional Impact During Deportation
- Elie's father cried upon the deportation order, a rare display of emotion that deeply affected Elie, marking a pivotal moment.
Chronological Events Leading to Deportation
- Jewish community leaders were arrested, residents were confined to their homes for three days, yellow stars became mandatory, two ghettos were established, and deportation orders were executed.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the first chapter of Elie Wiesel's 'Night'. This quiz focuses on key concepts and characters introduced, particularly the importance of Moshe the Beadle. Remember the critical events and themes presented in this profound memoir.
