Optimism in the Night
In Night by Elie Wiesel, Eliezer constantly questions the good nature of man during the Holocaust, while he watches himself and thousands of Jews endure unspeakable hardships and immense sufferings. He ultimately finds out that humans can truly be good. It is the faithfulness, kindness, and strength of the characters, that makes Night a book of hope and optimism. Despite horror that the Jews live through, many prevailed, some even prevailed in their death. Moreover, it is the spirit of the people, which brings hope to the book. Throughout the coarse of the book, the Jewish prisoners remain faithful not only to their religion but also in themselves as well. These two together form a bond of optimism among the Jews. Even the words from their enemies can lift their disposition. For example, while the Jews run through the freezing snow all night, the officers come buy to cheer them on and reassure them that rest will come soon. Eliezer explains: "These words of encouragement [...] did us a great deal of good. No one wanted to give up now, just before the end, so near to the goal"(Wiesel 88). They do not allow themselves to get discouraged, but instead look forward to a better future. This same idea
is expressed at Auschwitz. In the midst of religious persecution, the Jews manage to look on the brighter side of things by singing and praying together. The leader Akiba Drumer says, "God is testing us [...] we have no right to despair. And if He punishes us relentlessly, it's a sign that He loves us all the more" (Wiesel 42). By having faith and remaining loyal to their God, the Jewish people have found the strength to hang on in this dark situation. They also stay optimistic by being loyal to each other. Eliezer and his father demonstrate this when Eliezer injures his foot and breaks out of the hospital to be with his father. When his father is sick, he brings him food, and he even sleeps near him. As groups form at Buchenwald, Eliezer says this: "I held onto my fathers hand-the old, familiar fear: not to lose him" (Wiesel 99). Alone they are worthless, but together they have something to live for. This is how optimism is shown through faithfulness. While it is difficult to believe that man is inherently good during the holocaust, kind act consistently shine through the dark surface of the situation. For instance, as Eliezer is beaten an unlikely friend comes to his aid. A French girl whom he has never spoken to gives him bread and says: "Bite your lip little brother ... don't cry. Keep your anger and hatred for another day, for later on. The day will come, but not now ...wait, grit you teeth and wait..."(Wiesel 51). Eliezer finds out that even complete strangers can be there for you during the to
Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1028
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)
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