Suggested Literature To Accompany the Works of Michael Ray Charles


Elie Wiesel, Night, ©1964

This short book should be read in conjunction with the three essays entitled “Elkins and the Problem of Sambo.” Many of the points raised in the essays are given an eye-witness account in Night. Answer the following questions as you read.

  1. Elkins talks about a “closed system” in which Southern slave owners had absolute power over blacks. What evidence is there in the novel that the Nazis created a “closed system” over the Jews?






  2. Elkins is interested in the process by which Sambo, a dependent person, is reacted. Give examples of similar steps in the process of making Jews dependent.






  3. In order to secure food, the Jews lose some of their humanity. Give examples.






  4. Give an example in which Jews identify with their masters.






  5. What evidence is there that the whole concentration camp experience caused sexual impotence?




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