ESSAY WINNER - The Book Thief

By Catalina Agurto

This is the essay winner from the Essay Contest - How Film Reflects Our World.

We want to thank you, Jared Gadsby, for being the judge of this creative contest :)

Imagine living during World War II, in the era when the most heartless and cruel human beings existed. Who can you really rely on? The movie, The Book Thief, explores fundamental human values and remarks the importance of deep genuine

connections in the midst of war. This essay will focus on the meaning of humanity, what values it holds, and how it is related to relationships during difficult times.

What is Humanity?

The movie explores humanity in both extremes, where some were the truest form of it and others, the complete opposite. In addition, the idea of a human and its value was distorted since the appearance of the Nazi Party and their ideals. In the end, we could recognize what being a human really is, when the characters

demonstrated signs of kindness, empathy, compassion, integrity, generosity, honesty or hope. Both kindness and hope stand out the most in the movie.

Kindness can be reflected in the smallest gestures that one can do for others. Through the story there are several examples, especially towards the most in need, given by humans who still maintain a slight spark of hope despite the awful situation. There were many of them that, even if they were perceived as small acts, they can be considered grand gestures. The curious thing about kindness is that somehow, it comes back.

Hope, no one can have it for you, is a choice you make. Things can go terribly, but if you have faith that things can get better, at least you know your attitude will be. It was impossible to think jews would have hope, but they did, that’s how they survived. In the story, hope was in every age, specific groups, but always hoping something could change and get better. Being together make it stronger.

Deep connections

The protagonist, Liesel, and the relationships that surround her help us understand the importance of these connections. First, with Hans Hubermann, her adoptive father who has shown her the purest form of kindness since the beginning. His constant love and support really did great in Liesel, making her feel appreciated and determined to fight for what she feels passionate about. Thanks to him, Liesel found her interest in reading, the magic in every story and how it can transport you to a different reality; specially when you wanted to escape.

Likewise, there is Rudy Steiner, her best friend. They connected from the very first moment and understood what it is like to have a complicated family situation. A perfect pair. Rudy was never afraid in showing his affection to Liesel and was there for her, helping her to reflect and realize some things as well. They were not only neighbors, they were best friends.

Max Vandenburg, a symbol of hope. Another close friend of our book thief, who in spite of experiencing very traumatic events, maintains as a very assertive and supportive friend. They always discussed their worries and dreams, keeping each other company no matter what. Their connection was very natural and special since both needed someone to accompany and understand their inner world.

In conclusion, the movie explores how humanity can create a great good or the complete opposite but co-existing at the same time. It demonstrates how people still find joy in little moments and go through the hard ones, thanks to having each other.

The Book Thief (2013)