Introduction
“The Devil’s Arithmetic” by Jane Yolen is an enthralling dive into historical fiction, blending the past with the present in a way that’s both educational and deeply moving. 📚✨ Jane Yolen, an author known for her ability to weave magic with words, takes readers on a journey that is both heart-wrenching and insightful. Set against the somber backdrop of the Holocaust, this novel falls within the genre of historical fiction and fantasy, offering a unique lens through which young readers can understand the impacts of history.
The story serves as a bridge connecting the younger generation with the horrors and lessons of the past, in hopes of a brighter, more informed future. Yolen’s craft in storytelling brings to light the importance of memory and the power of names, making “The Devil’s Arithmetic” a poignant read for both young adults and older readers alike. Through its pages, Yolen not only educates but also honors those who lived through the events of the Holocaust, making it a respectful tribute as much as a work of fiction. 🕊️
Plot Summary
“The Devil’s Arithmetic” offers a compelling and educational narrative, inviting readers into a world where the past and the present intertwine with profound implications. Here’s a detailed look at the journey:
Exposition — Hannah Stern, a modern Jewish girl from New York, is disinterested in her family’s history and the significance of the Jewish holidays. During a Passover Seder, she is bored and indifferent, feeling disconnected from the stories of her ancestors.
Rising Action — The turn of events begins when Hannah is asked to open the door for the prophet Elijah, a traditional Passover practice. Instead of returning to her family’s Seder, she finds herself transported back in time to 1942 Poland, in a village where she is now called Chaya Abramowicz, a girl who has recently recovered from a cholera illness. As Chaya, Hannah experiences life in a Jewish community on the eve of a Nazi invasion.
Climax — The narrative reaches its peak when Hannah/Chaya and the villagers are rounded up by Nazi soldiers and sent to a concentration camp. Despite her initial disbelief, Hannah realizes that she has been transported into the past to experience the horrors of the Holocaust firsthand. Her knowledge of history becomes a burden as she knows the fate awaiting her and her new friends and family.
Falling Action — Inside the camp, Hannah’s attempts to blend in and follow instructions are challenged by her modern sensibilities and knowledge of history. She witnesses the brutality of the camp and the strength of the human spirit among the prisoners. Her role becomes one of a storyteller, using her memories from the future to offer hope and resilience to those around her.
Resolution — The narrative culminates in a sacrificial act of heroism. Hannah, understanding the significance of remembering the past, takes the place of a friend during a selection process, ensuring her friend’s survival at the cost of her own. This act of selflessness magically transports Hannah back to her family’s Seder in New York, where she returns with a deep understanding and appreciation of her heritage, the importance of memory, and the need to bear witness to the past.
Through “The Devil’s Arithmetic,” Jane Yolen crafts a narrative that not only educates about the Holocaust but also explores themes of memory, identity, and the importance of history. Hannah’s journey from indifference to profound understanding serves as a powerful reminder of the need to remember and honor the past.
Character Analysis
“The Devil’s Arithmetic” is rich with complex characters whose journeys and development are central to the story’s impact. Here’s a closer look at the main characters:
- Hannah Stern — A modern Jewish girl from New York, Hannah initially shows indifference towards her family’s history and the significance of Jewish traditions. Transported back in time to a Polish village during World War II, she becomes Chaya Abramowicz. Throughout her harrowing experiences in the concentration camp, Hannah undergoes significant growth, transforming from a disinterested young girl into a courageous individual who understands the importance of memory and the power of human resilience.
- Rivka — A wise and resilient girl Hannah meets in the concentration camp. Rivka’s strength and knowledge of how to survive in the camp become invaluable to Hannah and others. Her character represents the enduring spirit of those who lived through the Holocaust, as well as the importance of community and looking out for one another in the face of unimaginable adversity.
- Gitl — Chaya’s aunt in the past, Gitl is a strong and determined character. She helps Hannah navigate the new and frightening world she finds herself in. Gitl’s character embodies the strength and resilience of those who resisted the Nazis’ dehumanization and fought to maintain their dignity and humanity.
- Shmuel — A young boy to whom Chaya (Hannah) is to be married. Shmuel’s character offers a glimpse into the dreams and normalcy that were destroyed by the Holocaust. His kindness and the brief glimpse into a life that could have been provide a stark contrast to the brutality of their reality.
Character Analysis Summary:
| Character | Personality Traits | Motivations | Character Development |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hannah Stern | Indifferent, modern, transformative | Initially, to return to her own time; eventually, to remember and bear witness | Grows from disinterest to deep empathy and understanding |
| Rivka | Wise, resilient, caring | Survival and helping others survive | Teaches the value of resilience, memory, and community |
| Gitl | Strong, determined, nurturing | Protect family and maintain dignity | Symbolizes the strength and resistance of the Jewish people |
| Shmuel | Kind, hopeful, innocent | To marry Chaya and live a normal life | Represents the lost dreams and innocence of youth |
Each character in “The Devil’s Arithmetic” brings depth and humanity to the story, contributing to its themes of memory, survival, and the importance of bearing witness to history. Their journeys from darkness to light, from despair to hope, not only memorialize the past but also offer lessons on the strength of the human spirit.
Themes and Symbols
“The Devil’s Arithmetic” by Jane Yolen weaves together a rich tapestry of themes and symbols that contribute significantly to the depth and meaning of the narrative. Let’s explore some of the most poignant among them:
- Memory and the Importance of Remembering — The novel underscores the crucial role of memory in preserving the past and honoring those who suffered. Hannah’s journey from ignorance to understanding symbolizes the awakening of collective memory about the Holocaust, emphasizing that remembering is a way to combat historical denial and ensure such atrocities are never repeated.
- The Power of Names — Names in the story serve as a powerful symbol of identity and humanity. In the concentration camp, prisoners are stripped of their names and given numbers, an act of dehumanization. By remembering and using each other’s names, characters defy their oppressors and reclaim a sense of self, asserting their dignity and humanity in a place designed to take it from them.
- The Loss of Innocence — The transition from childhood to the harsh realities of the adult world is a prevalent theme. Hannah, initially indifferent to her heritage and the suffering of her ancestors, is forced to confront the brutal truth of the Holocaust. This loss of innocence is mirrored in the experiences of the other young characters in the story, representing the broader loss of innocence experienced by a generation.
- Survival and Resistance — Survival in “The Devil’s Arithmetic” is not only physical but also spiritual and cultural. The characters’ efforts to maintain their traditions, remember their names, and tell their stories are acts of resistance against the attempts to erase their identities. This theme highlights the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of cultural preservation even in the face of devastating adversity.
- The Passage of Time — The novel explores the concept of time both literally, through Hannah’s time travel, and metaphorically, in the sense of historical continuity and the cyclical nature of Jewish traditions. Time travel serves as a bridge between past and present, showing how the echoes of history reverberate through generations.
- The Seder Plate — As a symbol, the Seder plate used during the Passover Seder represents the story of the Jewish people’s liberation from slavery, and in the novel, it becomes a vehicle for Hannah’s journey into the past. It embodies the themes of remembrance and the passage of time, connecting the suffering of the Jews in Egypt with the suffering of those during the Holocaust.
These themes and symbols enrich “The Devil’s Arithmetic,” making it a profound story about the importance of remembering our history, understanding our heritage, and recognizing the strength of the human spirit. Through Hannah’s eyes, readers are invited to reflect on these themes, understanding the significance of memory, identity, and resilience.
Writing Style and Tone
Jane Yolen’s “The Devil’s Arithmetic” showcases a unique blend of writing styles and tones that significantly contribute to the mood and atmosphere of the book. Here’s an exploration of these elements:
- Historical Fiction with a Twist of Fantasy — Yolen combines the grounded, stark realities of historical fiction with elements of fantasy, such as time travel. This melding creates a bridge between past and present, making the distant horrors of the Holocaust more accessible and relatable to young readers. The fantasy element serves as a vehicle for deeper historical and emotional exploration, allowing readers to experience the past in a visceral way.
- Descriptive and Evocative Language — Yolen uses vivid and descriptive language to paint a stark picture of life during the Holocaust. Her ability to describe the concentration camp and the experiences of the characters in detailed, sensory language helps to immerse the reader in the story, making the events more impactful.
- Tone Shifts — The tone of the book shifts significantly from the beginning to the end. It starts with a lighter tone as we meet Hannah, a modern young girl with typical concerns and disinterest in her heritage. However, as the story progresses and Hannah finds herself in the past, the tone becomes heavier, more serious, and somber, reflecting the gravity of the Holocaust and the experiences of the characters.
- Empathetic and Respectful Handling of Difficult Topics — Yolen approaches the subject matter with a tone of respect and empathy. She does not shy away from the harsh realities of the Holocaust but presents them in a way that is appropriate for young readers. This balance between honesty and sensitivity is a testament to her skill as a writer and her understanding of her audience.
- Use of Dialogue — The dialogue in the book serves several purposes: it advances the plot, provides character development, and introduces historical and cultural context. Yolen’s use of dialogue effectively captures the voices of the time, making the characters and their experiences more relatable and real.
- Educational Yet Engaging — Throughout the book, Yolen maintains a balance between educating her readers about the Holocaust and telling an engaging, character-driven story. This educational tone does not detract from the narrative but enhances it, making the book a valuable tool for learning about history in a way that is engaging and emotionally resonant.
Through these stylistic choices and tonal shifts, Jane Yolen crafts a narrative that is both a tribute to those who suffered during the Holocaust and a lesson on the importance of memory and understanding. “The Devil’s Arithmetic” stands out as a poignant, thought-provoking piece that respects its subject matter while making it accessible to young readers.
Literary Devices used in The Devil’s Arithmetic
Jane Yolen’s “The Devil’s Arithmetic” skillfully incorporates a range of literary devices that enrich the narrative, adding layers of meaning and enhancing the reader’s experience. Here’s an in-depth look at the top 10 literary devices Yolen employs:
- Symbolism — Yolen uses symbols, such as the Seder plate and the numbers tattooed on the prisoners, to represent larger themes of memory, identity, and the Holocaust’s dehumanization. These symbols serve as powerful reminders of the story’s deeper meanings and the historical realities it reflects.
- Foreshadowing — Early in the novel, Yolen hints at the dramatic shift Hannah’s life is about to take. The mysterious remarks by the characters at the Seder about remembering and not forgetting serve as subtle foreshadows of Hannah’s journey back in time and the lessons she will learn.
- Flashback — Though the novel primarily moves forward in time following Hannah’s travel to the past, there are moments of reflection that serve as flashbacks within this alternate reality. These moments provide background on the characters’ lives before the war, adding depth and context to their current situations.
- Imagery — Yolen’s vivid descriptions of both the modern and historical settings create a rich, immersive world. Her detailed portrayal of the concentration camp’s harsh conditions makes the reader feel the cold, hunger, and fear alongside the characters.
- Irony — There is a poignant irony in Hannah’s initial boredom with her family’s Passover Seder and her subsequent desperate wish to return to it after experiencing the horrors of the Holocaust. This irony emphasizes the importance of remembering and understanding history.
- Metaphor — The entire novel can be seen as a metaphor for the journey of understanding and empathy. Hannah’s literal journey back in time represents the figurative journey that many must undertake to truly comprehend the depths of human suffering and the importance of memory.
- Personification — Yolen occasionally gives human qualities to concepts and objects, such as memory and time, to emphasize their importance in the narrative and the characters’ lives. This personification makes abstract concepts more tangible and relatable to the reader.
- Allusion — The novel is filled with allusions to Jewish history, traditions, and the Holocaust itself. These references create a deeper connection between the story’s events and the real historical context, enriching the reader’s understanding.
- Juxtaposition — Yolen juxtaposes the normalcy of Hannah’s life in New York with the brutal reality of the Holocaust. This stark contrast enhances the shock and horror of the historical events and underscores the theme of lost innocence.
- Repetition — The repetition of phrases and themes, such as the importance of remembering and the phrase “Remember this,” serves to reinforce the novel’s main messages and ensure they resonate with the reader.
Yolen’s adept use of these literary devices not only enhances the storytelling but also deepens the reader’s engagement with the themes and historical context of “The Devil’s Arithmetic.” Each device contributes to a layered, impactful narrative that educates, enlightens, and evokes empathy.
Literary Devices Examples
Let’s delve into examples and explanations for each of the top 10 literary devices used in “The Devil’s Arithmetic” by Jane Yolen, highlighting how each device enhances the narrative and deepens the reader’s understanding of the story’s themes.
Symbolism
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Seder Plate | Represents the Jewish people’s history and resilience, linking Hannah’s modern life to her ancestral past and the broader history of Jewish suffering and survival. |
| Numbers Tattooed on Prisoners | Symbolize the dehumanization of the Holocaust victims, reducing them from individuals with names and identities to mere numbers. |
| Doorway | The act of opening the door for Elijah symbolizes the opening of a portal to the past, through which Hannah steps into Chaya’s life and the historical reality of the Holocaust. |
Foreshadowing
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “You must remember” | Early mentions of remembering and not forgetting subtly hint at the critical role memory will play in Hannah’s journey and the narrative’s focus on the importance of bearing witness to history. |
| Hannah’s Reluctance | Her initial reluctance to participate in the Seder foreshadows her later desperation to return to her family and her newfound appreciation for her heritage. |
Flashback
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Memories of Chaya’s Life | As Hannah becomes Chaya, she experiences flashbacks of Chaya’s life before the war, providing context for the events and characters she encounters, and highlighting the contrast between normal life and the atrocities of the Holocaust. |
Imagery
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Description of the Camp | Detailed descriptions of the concentration camp vividly convey the bleakness, fear, and suffering experienced by the prisoners, making the reader feel as though they are witnessing the horrors firsthand. |
Irony
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Hannah’s Wish to Return | The irony of Hannah’s initial boredom with the Seder and her subsequent desperate wish to return underscores the theme that understanding and valuing one’s heritage requires truly comprehending the sacrifices of the past. |
Metaphor
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Time Travel | Hannah’s time travel serves as a metaphor for the journey of understanding and connection across generations, emphasizing that the past is not just history, but a part of our collective identity. |
Personification
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Memory Speaking | Occasionally, memory is described as if it has a voice, urging the characters (and the reader) to remember and bear witness, personifying memory as an active, guiding force. |
Allusion
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Historical Events | References to specific events and practices from Jewish history and the Holocaust allude to the real-life atrocities, grounding the narrative in historical reality. |
Juxtaposition
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Modern Life vs. Holocaust Reality | The stark contrast between Hannah’s life in New York and the lives of the Jews during the Holocaust highlights the unimaginable horror of the events and the importance of remembering them. |
Repetition
| Example | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “Remember this” | This phrase is repeated throughout the novel, emphasizing the importance of memory and the act of remembering as a form of resistance against forgetting and denial. |
Through these examples, it becomes evident how Jane Yolen’s use of literary devices in “The Devil’s Arithmetic” not only enriches the storytelling but also serves to deepen the reader’s engagement with the story’s themes, making the historical events more accessible and emotionally resonant.
The Devil’s Arithmetic – FAQs
What is ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’ about?
“The Devil’s Arithmetic” is a novel by Jane Yolen that follows Hannah Stern, a modern Jewish girl who is transported back in time to 1942 Poland, where she experiences the horrors of the Holocaust first-hand. The story explores themes of memory, identity, and the importance of remembering the past.
Who is the main character in ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’?
The main character is Hannah Stern, a young Jewish girl from New York who becomes Chaya Abramowicz when she travels back in time to a Polish village during World War II.
What are the key themes in ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’?
Key themes include the importance of memory and remembering the past, the loss of innocence, survival and resistance, the power of names, and the passage of time.
How does ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’ address the topic of the Holocaust?
The novel addresses the Holocaust by immersing the protagonist, Hannah, into the life of a Jewish girl living during World War II. Through her experiences in a concentration camp, readers gain insights into the atrocities of the Holocaust and the strength of those who lived through it.
What literary devices does Jane Yolen use in ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’?
Jane Yolen employs various literary devices, including symbolism, foreshadowing, imagery, irony, metaphor, personification, allusion, juxtaposition, and repetition to enrich the narrative and emphasize the story’s themes.
Is ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’ suitable for young readers?
While “The Devil’s Arithmetic” deals with heavy themes and the grim reality of the Holocaust, Jane Yolen presents the story in a way that is accessible and appropriate for middle-grade readers and up, encouraging historical awareness and empathy.
What lessons can be learned from ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’?
Readers can learn the importance of remembering and honoring our past, understanding the depths of human suffering, and the resilience of the human spirit. The story also highlights the significance of cultural and personal identity.
Does ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’ involve time travel?
Yes, the novel involves time travel as a literary device to connect the present with the past, allowing the protagonist, Hannah, to experience the historical events of the Holocaust firsthand, thereby bridging the gap between generations.
Quiz
| Question | A | B | C | D | Correct Answer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| What event leads to Hannah’s time travel? | Opening a book about the Holocaust | Lighting the Hanukkah menorah | Opening the door for Elijah during the Passover Seder | Finding a vintage photograph | C |
| Who is Rivka in ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’? | Hannah’s sister | A girl Hannah meets in the concentration camp | The camp commandant | Hannah’s best friend from school | B |
| What symbolizes dehumanization in the novel? | The changing of names | The numbers tattooed on prisoners | The wearing of the Star of David | The Seder plate | B |
| What is the main theme of ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’? | Adventure and exploration | The importance of family | The importance of memory and remembering the past | Time travel and its consequences | C |
| How does Hannah return to her original time? | By opening another door | Through a magic spell | By reciting a Jewish prayer | By sacrificing herself for a friend | D |
| What does Hannah learn from her experience? | The importance of technology | Cooking traditional Jewish dishes | The significance of her Jewish heritage and the importance of remembering history | How to speak Polish | C |
| Who is Chaya Abramowicz? | Hannah’s alter ego in 1942 Poland | A famous Jewish historian | The author of ‘The Devil’s Arithmetic’ | A character from another book Hannah reads | A |
| What does the Seder plate represent in the novel? | The luxury of food | The journey from slavery to freedom, and the importance of remembering one’s past | A decorative item with no significance | The diversity of Jewish cuisine | B |
This quiz is designed to test your comprehension of “The Devil’s Arithmetic” and deepen your understanding of its key elements, themes, and characters.
Exercise
Spot the Literary Devices in the Paragraph
Read the following paragraph from “The Devil’s Arithmetic” and identify the literary devices used. Below the paragraph, you’ll find the answers separated by a line.
Hannah felt a chill run down her spine as she stepped through the doorway, leaving behind the warm glow of the Seder table for the cold darkness of the past. The air was thick with the scent of fear and the unknown. Shadows seemed to dance around her, whispering tales of sorrow and despair. In this moment, she was no longer just Hannah; she was a witness to history, a carrier of memories long forgotten.
Answers
- Imagery – “The air was thick with the scent of fear and the unknown.” This sentence uses vivid descriptive language to evoke a strong sensory experience for the reader.
- Symbolism – The “doorway” symbolizes the transition from the present to the past, serving as a portal through which Hannah enters a different world and a different part of her identity.
- Personification – “Shadows seemed to dance around her, whispering tales of sorrow and despair.” Shadows are given human-like qualities, enhancing the eerie and foreboding atmosphere of the scene.
- Metaphor – Hannah is described as “a carrier of memories long forgotten,” metaphorically representing her role as someone who bridges the past and the present, carrying the weight of history’s lessons into the future.