Characters
Who is the main character in Chapter 6?
Hannah Stern or Chaya Abramowicz
What event does Chapter 6 focus on?
The chapter focuses on the wedding day preparation and festivities for Shmuel, as well as, recognizing the differences culturally between men, women, children (boys and girls), as well as interaction and/or lack with other cultures.
What major theme is explored in Chapter 6?
The theme is of memory, history, and the roles within the Jewish culture.
What does the matzah represent in the Seder?
It represents the bread of affliction (hardship in slavery) and the Jews' escape (freedom) from Egypt.
What historical event is referenced so far in the book?
The Holocaust.
What is the relationship between Hannah and Gitl?
Gitl is Hannah's aunt.
What memory does Hannah experience in chapter 6?
Hannah remembers the photographs on Grandma Belle's piano - "something old-fashioned and unfamiliar." Pictures of Grandma Belle's family, but not of Grandpa Will (no photos saved in the death camps).
How does the theme of family play a role in this chapter?
Family bonds are highlighted through the preparing for the wedding festivities: from Chaya's clothes and hair to Shmuel's gifts, and the interaction of others as they gather (women vs. men; children).
How is the wine used during the Seder a symbol?
It symbolizes joy and the sweetness of life despite suffering.
Why is it important to remember the Holocaust?
To honor the victims and ensure that history doesn't repeat itself.
What role does Grandfather play in the story?
Grandfather is a survivor from the Holocaust who shares his memories.
What important tradition is highlighted during the Seder?
The tradition of remembering and retelling the story of the Jewish people's exodus from Egypt.
What does the theme of sacrifice represent in chapter 6?
Gitl sacrifices personal items (i.e. blue ribbon) and outfit used for special occasions (i.e. Shmuel's Bar-Mitzpah) in order for Chaya to be ready for the wedding.
What does the opening the door for Elijah symbolize?
It symbolizes the hope for the future redemption and the belief that the prophet Elijah will herald the arrival of the Messiah.
How does the chapter connect to Jewish traditions?
It connects through the Seder and the rituals associated with the Passover; as well as, other family specific events (like a wedding).
Describe the character of Yitzchak.
He is a wealthy man, a butcher, who leads the discussion with the other men next to the barn - "for men only" and is fond of Gitl.
How does the chapter illustrate the theme of remembrance?
Interaction (telling stories) with friends and family as they prepare for the wedding.
How is the theme of identity explored in this chapter?
Hannah struggles with her identity as she experiences her family's past and her interaction with those in her "dream." Her time in the "past" is already changing her.
How does the Haggadah serve as a symbol?
It symbolizes the importance of storytelling and preserving history. It sets out the ceremony for the Seder meal, when families tell the biblical Exodus story of God delivering the ancient Israelites from slavery in Egypt.
What role do survivors like Hannah's grandfather play in preserving history?
They share their experiences to educate future generations about the Holocaust.
How does Hannah's perspective change throughout Chapter 6?
Hannah is uncertain whether she is Hannah or Chaya. She is beginning to understand the significance of her history.
What is the significance of the door being opened for Elijah during the Seder?
It signifies hope and the Jewish belief in redemption.
How does chapter 6 address the theme of community or belonging?
Although a shtetl is a small community, it is also a close-knit one, and Shmuel and Fayge’s wedding shows how certain events can bring the whole community together.
What does the act of opening the door for Elijah signify in Jewish tradition?
It signifies welcoming the prophet and hope for redemption.
How does the author use historical context to enhance the story's theme?
The historical context provides depth to the characters' experiences and highlights the importance of memory/remembering.