Plot & Key Elements (RL.8.2)
What country does Vladek live in at the beginning of Maus 1?
Poland
One major theme of Maus 1 is survival will be the key. True or False
True
Who is telling the main story in Maus 1
Vladek Spiegelman
What animals represent Jews in Maus 1?
Mice
Vladek uses the expression, “Pssh,” on page 73, panel 8. How does this expression impact the
tone of his statement?
It creates a condescending tone.
(Condescending - having or showing a feeling of patronizing superiority; talking as if you're above or better than someone)
What major historical event shapes the plot of Maus 1?
The Holocaust/WW2
How does Maus 1 show the theme of fear?
Through hiding, constant danger, and betrayal
How is Vladek described as a character?
Clever, cautious, and sometimes difficult
Why are Nazis shown as cats?
cats are natural predators of mice
What is the meaning of the figurative phrase “like lightning” as it is used on page 76, panel 7?
quite quickly
Why does Vladek and Anja's family begin to hide?
Because Jews are being targeted by the Nazis.
Which theme is shown through Vladek saving food and money?
Survival and Scarcity
How does Anja support Vladek during the war?
Emotionally and by helping make decisions
What does the animal symbolism help the reader understand?
What does Vladek's father's decision reveal about him? Explain how he demonstrates this trait.
Vladek's father's decision to sneak over to the 'bad side' of the fence reveals that he is selfless and caring because he chose to join his daughter and grandchildren despite knowing the dangers, showing how he put his family's wellbeing above his own safety.
What happen to Richieu during the war?
He is poisoned by his caretaker to avoid being taken by the Nazis
How does the theme of family appear in Maus 1, during the war?
Family members try to protect each other during the war
Analyze the impact of Vladek's relationship with his son, Art, on the narrative structure of "Maus." How does their dynamic contribute to the overall story?
It provides a personal and emotional depth to the historical events.
How does simple language affect the story's tone?
it makes the events feel more serious and real
How would you best describe the relationship between Artie and Vladek?
Distant, Difficult, and Damaged
How does the framing story (Art interviewing Vladek) connect to the main plot?
It shows how the past affects the present and Art's relationship with his father.
Explain how guilt is a theme in Maus 1
Survivors feel guilt for living while others died.
How do Vladek's experiences explain his behavior in the present?
Why does Spiegelman use a graphic novel format?
To visually show emotion, fear, and historical events
How do the Nazis treat the Polish and Jewish prisoners of war?
They treat the Jewish prisoners worse than everyone else, forcing them to do hard labor and sleep in freezing tents