The Boy in the Striped Pajamas Activity

Plot Summary

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a movie that takes place in Berlin Germany during World War Two. It focuses on an adventurous, defiant and empathetic boy named Bruno, who is nine years of age. The movie begins with Bruno returning home from school. Bruno discovers that his father has received a promotion and his family must relocate elsewhere. After moving, Bruno’s initial feelings are of discontent and frustration as there is no neighbor near his house to play with. When inside his house, Bruno notices an odd looking area beyond his backyard that appears to be a concentration camp. Bruno is given strict instructions from his parents to remain away from his backyard. His parents make strong efforts to limit Bruno’s exposure to the camp behind his house. For example they cover up his back window, preventing him from seeing behind his house. This is an indicant that they do not want him to interact with any of those in the camp. Bruno’s curiosity leads him to defy all rules and explore “areas out of bound”. When exploring the new environment he meets a young boy named Schmuel. Soon later Bruno develops a strong relationship with the boy. To his surprise, aspects of Schmuel’s life dramatically differ from his own. Bruno’s sympathy results in a devastating consequence that Jews experienced frequently at the time.  

Relate

The story highlights how Jews were treated during and after World War Two. The story shows that Jews were mistreated and killed by lethal gasses due to their heritage and background. Though I have not been mistreated to such an extent, I can relate to this story as I have been looked upon negatively because of my background. Furthermore, I can comprehend the torture Jews faced and I believe that no one should be mistreated in such a way.

Reflect

The movie showed how Jews suffered from discrimination and racism during the holocaust. Bruno was curious to know why Jews were sent to such camps, and experienced such conditions. Bruno had difficulty understanding why his parents discouraged him to interact with Jews. His parents may have done this because of their feelings about Jews. They may have viewed Jews as inhumane and “enemies” like many did at the time.