English & Literature

Night by Elie Wiesel

"And I, the former mystic, was thinking: Yes, man is stronger, greater than God. When Adam and Eve deceived You, You chased them from paradise. When you were displeased with Noah's generation, You brought down the Flood. When Sodom lost your favor, You caused the heavens to rain down fire and damnation. But look at these men whom You have betrayed, allowing them to be tortured, slaughtered, gasses, and burned, what do they do? They pray before You! The praise Your name!"

How does the repetition of the word "You" affect your understanding of Wiesel's attitude? Why do you believe he repeats it so many times?

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Last updated by Jill W
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Elie is loudly voicing his displeasure with God. He is angry about the plight of the Jews.... the torture, degradation, and annihilation. In using the word "You" he is accentuating God's importance to the Jews and accusing God of deserting his people. Elie is placing the blame for their situation at God's feet.

Source(s)

Night