Memory In Markus Zusak's The Book Thief

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In Markus Zusak’s The Book Thief, Hans Hubermann deals with his past while exemplifying the themes of memory and punishment. First of all, Hans’ life had been saved in World War I by a Jew, and, because of this, decides to hide the man’s son in his basement years later when Jews were being persecuted. Hans’ decision exemplifies the theme of memory because, since the man had risked his life for him, he felt the least he could do was protect his son from danger. By remembering his past, Hans saves a life from peril and oppression, all while putting his own life in jeopardy. Second of all, Hans again remembers the Jew who saved his life when he gives a feeble Jewish man a piece of bread while surrounded by German soldiers. The kindness and