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Essay / The evolution of father-son relationships in the night by Elie Wiesel
Table of contentsFather-son relationship in the night: IntroductionExamples of father-son relationships in the night: beginningFather-son relationships in the night: evolutionFather relationship -son in the night: conclusionWorks CitedFather -The relationship between son in the night: IntroductionThe novel "Night" by Elie Wiesel provides a poignant and detailed account of his experiences during the Holocaust. The story primarily focuses on Eliezer (Eli) Wiesel and his Jewish family, highlighting the evolution of their relationship from a typical father-son dynamic to a deeply bonded and caring one. However, this relationship undergoes a drastic transformation as societal norms are reversed, with Eli becoming his father's guardian (Fine 7). Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original EssayExamples of Father-Son Relationships at Night: BeginningInitially, the relationship between Shlomo and his son is depicted as weak. Eli describes his father as cultured but emotionally distant, demonstrating a lack of emotional expression even within the confines of their home (Wiesel 2). This characteristic is presented as a typically masculine trait at this time. Although Eli has a fondness for his father, his strongest bond is with his mother. He wonders why his father prioritizes the well-being of others in the community over that of his own family (Wiesel 4). A conflict arises between Eli and his father when Shlomo forbids him from studying Kabbalah, judging him too young. Eli defies his father's wishes and learns Kabbalah under Moishe the Beadle. Father-Son Relationship Overnight: Evolution The father-son relationship undergoes a significant change when Shlomo's family enters the Birkenau concentration camp. Before this, Eli is portrayed as an independent individual. However, separation from his mother and sister leaves him alone with his father in the men's section of the camp. Eli's autonomy diminishes as he becomes more and more concerned about his father's well-being, especially since they are not housed in the same barracks. His father's absence stirs strong emotions in Eli, who is unable to ignore his father's predicament (Wiesel 39). The brutal torture inflicted on Shlomo and other Jewish men by Nazi officers plays a crucial role in the evolution of their relationship. As a little boy, Eli witnesses his father being mercilessly beaten, but he is powerless to intervene due to his young age and circumstances. Another pivotal moment occurs when Eli witnesses Idek, the Kapo, brutally attack his father. These traumatic incidents completely change Eli's perception of his father. Eli's love and concern for his father is expressed when the Nazis decide to evacuate the camp. He leaves the safety of the medical center and follows his father, fearing separation from him (Wiesel 82). In the next camp, circumstances lead to a drastic change in the father-son relationship. Shlomo's health deteriorates and he becomes increasingly dependent on Eli for his care (Sibelman 61). Eli takes on the role of his father's caretaker, providing support and attempting to comfort him under harsh conditions and prolonged torture. However, towards the end of the story, Eli's perspective changes as he longs to be free of his responsibilities. He perceives his father as an obstacle, and when his father dies, Eli feels a sense of relief and liberation (Wiesel 124). Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Father -Son Relationship at Night: ConclusionIn conclusion, Wiesel skillfully depicts the changing dynamics of..