Literary Devices in The Chosen ✍️

Introduction

Welcome to the captivating world of “The Chosen” by Chaim Potok 📖! First published in 1967, this profound novel not only explores the depths of friendship and the complexities of a father-son relationship but also delves into the challenges of cultural and religious identity. Set against the backdrop of World War II and its aftermath in a Jewish neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York, the story brings to light the divergent paths of two boys from very different Jewish communities.

Contents

Chaim Potok, born in 1929, was not just an author but also a rabbi and philosopher whose works often reflect his own experiences with Orthodox and Hasidic Judaism. Potok’s insightful narratives provide a window into the Jewish soul, making “The Chosen” not just a novel but an exploration of faith, friendship, and the transitions from adolescence to adulthood.

The genre of “The Chosen” can be best described as a coming-of-age story, rich with themes of religion, cultural identity, and the pursuit of understanding. It’s a tale that resonates with readers from all walks of life, inviting them into a world where tradition and modernity clash and converge. Join us as we embark on this journey through Chaim Potok’s beloved masterpiece! 🌟

Plot Summary

“The Chosen” unfolds in Brooklyn, New York, during the 1940s, offering a glimpse into the lives of two Jewish boys from markedly different backgrounds — Reuven Malter and Danny Saunders. Their story is a tapestry of friendship, personal growth, and understanding, woven through the events of World War II and its aftermath.

Exposition — The novel kicks off with a baseball game between two Jewish parochial schools, during which Danny injures Reuven, inadvertently setting the stage for their unlikely friendship.
Rising Action — As Reuven recovers in the hospital, Danny visits him to apologize, marking the beginning of their deep friendship. Despite their different upbringings—Reuven being raised in a Modern Orthodox family and Danny in a strict Hasidic one—they find common ground in their intellect, love for learning, and the complexities of their relationships with their fathers.
Climax — The climax emerges as the horrors of the Holocaust are revealed, along with the establishment of the state of Israel. These events bring to the forefront ideological differences between the boys’ fathers, straining Reuven and Danny’s friendship. Danny, expected to succeed his father as a Hasidic rabbi, struggles with his own desire to pursue a secular education, a choice that could alienate him from his family and community.
Falling Action — Reuven and Danny navigate the challenges of their diverging paths. Danny secretly studies psychology at a college, preparing for a different future, while Reuven continues his religious and secular studies. Their friendship endures strains but is ultimately strengthened by mutual understanding and respect.
Resolution — The novel concludes with Danny being accepted to study psychology at a prestigious university, with his father finally speaking to him after years of silence, signifying his tacit approval of Danny’s choices. The silence between them, once a source of pain, is transformed into a symbol of love and acceptance. Reuven, on the other hand, looks forward to a future where he can blend religious life with a career in academia, pondering the impact of his and Danny’s experiences on their identities and beliefs.

“The Chosen” is a moving narrative of friendship, faith, and the quest for personal and communal identity amidst the backdrop of significant historical events, illustrating how understanding and compassion can bridge seemingly insurmountable divides.

Character Analysis

In “The Chosen,” Chaim Potok presents characters that are richly developed, each with their own struggles, growth, and personal journeys. Let’s dive into the main characters and explore their complexities.

Reuven Malter — Reuven is an observant Jewish teenager living in Brooklyn with his father. He is intelligent, compassionate, and open-minded, traits that allow him to navigate the complexities of friendship and faith. Over the course of the novel, Reuven grows from a boy into a thoughtful young man, deeply influenced by his friendship with Danny and the guidance of his father. His journey includes understanding the power of silence, the importance of empathy, and the value of differing perspectives.
Danny Saunders — Danny is the son of a Hasidic rabbi, expected to follow in his father’s footsteps. He is brilliant, with a photographic memory, and possesses a deep curiosity about the world outside his Hasidic community. Despite his apparent destiny, Danny aspires to become a psychologist, a dream that puts him at odds with his father’s expectations. His character arc involves the struggle for personal autonomy, the reconciliation of his religious heritage with his personal ambitions, and the pursuit of a compassionate understanding of others.
David Malter — David is Reuven’s father, a teacher and Zionist activist. He embodies wisdom, compassion, and a deep faith in Judaism that is both open and progressive. His relationship with Reuven is one of mutual respect and open communication, serving as a stark contrast to the relationship between Danny and his father. David plays a crucial role in guiding both boys towards understanding and acceptance of their respective paths.
Reb Saunders — The father of Danny Saunders, Reb Saunders is the charismatic leader of his Hasidic community. He raises Danny in silence, speaking to him only when studying the Talmud, believing this will teach him to listen to the suffering of others. This method of raising Danny highlights the themes of communication and understanding that are central to the novel. Despite his rigid adherence to tradition, Reb Saunders ultimately loves his son and wants what’s best for him, even if it means letting him go.

Character Analysis Summary:

Character	Personality Traits	Motivations	Development
Reuven Malter	Intelligent, compassionate, open-minded	To reconcile faith and friendship, and find his path in life	Grows in understanding and empathy, learning the value of different perspectives
Danny Saunders	Brilliant, curious, conflicted	To pursue his own dreams while respecting his heritage	Learns the importance of autonomy and compassion, reconciling his identity with his ambitions
David Malter	Wise, compassionate, progressive	To guide his son and students, and support the creation of Israel	Serves as a moral and intellectual mentor, influencing both Reuven and Danny
Reb Saunders	Charismatic, traditional, loving	To maintain his community’s traditions while raising his successor	Ultimately accepts Danny’s autonomy and the changing nature of their relationship

The characters in “The Chosen” are deeply intertwined, each influencing and being influenced by the others. Their development throughout the novel is a testament to Potok’s skill in crafting characters that are both believable and deeply sympathetic.

Themes and Symbols

“The Chosen” by Chaim Potok is rich with themes and symbols that weave through the narrative, adding layers of meaning and contributing to the overall impact of the story.

Silence — Silence is a prevailing symbol in the novel, representing communication and miscommunication, understanding and misunderstanding. Reb Saunders’ use of silence with Danny is meant to teach him compassion and empathy, yet it also creates distance and pain. The silence between characters often speaks louder than words, symbolizing the complexities of relationships and the unspoken bonds that connect individuals.
Friendship — The theme of friendship is central to “The Chosen,” illustrating the deep and transformative connections between individuals. The friendship between Reuven and Danny serves as a bridge between different worlds, ideologies, and traditions. It highlights the power of understanding, respect, and loyalty in overcoming differences and fostering personal growth.
Father-Son Relationships — The novel explores the dynamics of father-son relationships, particularly the expectations and pressures placed on sons by their fathers. These relationships are complex and multifaceted, from the silent but intense connection between Danny and Reb Saunders to the open and supportive relationship between Reuven and David Malter. The novel suggests that love, understanding, and communication are key to navigating the challenges of these relationships.
Identity and Personal Growth — The journey towards self-discovery and personal growth is a major theme of “The Chosen.” Both Reuven and Danny struggle to understand their own identities within the context of their religious and cultural backgrounds, their family expectations, and their personal ambitions. The novel portrays this journey as painful but ultimately rewarding, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and one’s place in the world.
The Impact of War and Suffering — The backdrop of World War II and the Holocaust, along with the struggle for the establishment of the state of Israel, highlights the themes of suffering, resilience, and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion. The characters are profoundly affected by these events, which shape their views on life, faith, and the importance of taking action for what they believe in.
Religion and Tradition vs. Modernity — “The Chosen” delves into the tensions between maintaining religious and cultural traditions and embracing modernity and change. This theme is evident in the contrasting lives and beliefs of the Hasidic and Modern Orthodox Jewish communities, as well as in the personal conflicts faced by Danny and Reuven as they navigate their futures.

These themes and symbols enrich “The Chosen,” making it a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel. Potok masterfully uses these elements to explore the complexities of faith, friendship, and family, and the eternal quest for understanding and identity.

Style and Tone

Chaim Potok’s “The Chosen” is characterized by a distinctive writing style and tone that significantly contribute to the novel’s mood and atmosphere. Here are some key aspects:

Reflective and Insightful Tone — Potok’s tone throughout the novel is reflective and introspective, inviting readers to delve deep into the minds and hearts of the characters. This tone enhances the themes of personal growth and understanding, making the reader an active participant in the characters’ journeys.
Detailed Descriptions — The author uses detailed descriptions to bring the settings and characters to life. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Brooklyn or the quiet intensity of a study room, Potok’s vivid descriptions help to immerse the reader in the world of the novel.
Dialogue — The dialogue in “The Chosen” is authentic and revealing, providing insight into the characters’ thoughts, beliefs, and emotions. Conversations often serve as the vehicle for the novel’s thematic explorations, such as discussions of faith, philosophy, and the human condition.
Use of Jewish Terms and Concepts — Potok integrates Jewish terms, concepts, and practices into the narrative, enriching the cultural and religious backdrop against which the story unfolds. This inclusion not only educates the reader but also adds depth to the characters and their experiences.
Balanced Narrative Pace — The pace of the narrative is carefully balanced, with moments of intense action or emotional depth contrasted with periods of calm reflection. This pacing mirrors the internal states of the characters, aligning the reader’s experience with the ebbs and flows of the story’s drama.
Empathy and Compassion — A key aspect of Potok’s writing style is the empathy and compassion with which he portrays his characters. Even when they are flawed or in conflict, the author presents their perspectives with understanding and depth, encouraging the reader to empathize with them.

These stylistic elements work together to create a mood that is both contemplative and emotionally engaging, drawing readers into the intricate world of “The Chosen” and the lives of its characters. Potok’s writing not only tells a compelling story but also prompts reflection on deeper themes of faith, identity, and the bonds that connect us.

Literary Devices Used in The Chosen

In “The Chosen,” Chaim Potok skillfully employs a variety of literary devices that enrich the narrative, deepen the themes, and enhance the reader’s experience. Here are the top 10 literary devices used in the novel:

Symbolism — Potok uses symbols to convey deeper meanings and themes. For example, the baseball game that introduces Danny and Reuven symbolizes the competitive tensions and eventual camaraderie between different Jewish sects.
Foreshadowing — The author hints at future events or revelations, building suspense and anticipation. The initial silence between Danny and his father foreshadows the complex exploration of communication and understanding that unfolds.
Metaphor — Potok employs metaphors to draw comparisons that illuminate characters’ experiences and emotions. For instance, the contrasting worlds of Hasidic and Orthodox Judaism are often depicted through metaphors related to light and darkness, indicating enlightenment and obscurity.
Allusion — The novel is rich with allusions to Jewish texts and history, adding layers of meaning and context. References to the Talmud and biblical stories provide insight into the characters’ lives and beliefs.
Imagery — Vivid imagery is used to create sensory experiences for the reader, enhancing the depiction of settings, characters, and emotions. Descriptions of the Brooklyn neighborhood, with its sights and sounds, bring the setting to life.
Irony — Situational and dramatic irony are present, highlighting the contrasts between characters’ perceptions and the reality of their situations. Danny’s pursuit of psychology, a field focused on communication, contrasts with his own struggles with silence and communication within his family.
Parallelism — The parallel lives of Danny and Reuven, with their distinct yet intersecting challenges and growth, are a structural device that highlights themes of friendship and personal discovery.
Personification — Occasionally, Potok personifies concepts or objects to emphasize their significance or emotional impact, such as describing silence as a tangible presence that can communicate or divide.
Juxtaposition — The author juxtaposes characters, settings, and ideologies to highlight differences and similarities, deepening the exploration of themes such as tradition versus modernity and the diversity within Jewish identity.
Flashback — Flashbacks are used to provide background information about characters, revealing motivations and shaping the reader’s understanding of their actions and decisions.

These literary devices contribute to the depth and richness of “The Chosen,” allowing Chaim Potok to weave a complex narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Literary Devices Examples

Let’s explore examples and explanations for each of the top 10 literary devices used in “The Chosen” by Chaim Potok.

Symbolism

Baseball Game

Example: The baseball game that injures Reuven and introduces him to Danny serves as a symbol for the initial conflict and eventual friendship between them, representing broader themes of competition, misunderstanding, and reconciliation.
Explanation: This event mirrors the initial animosity and eventual deep connection between different Jewish communities, highlighting the possibility of unity despite differences.

Glasses

Example: Reuven’s glasses, broken during the baseball game, symbolize his initial inability to see beyond his own prejudices and the beginning of his journey towards broader understanding and empathy.
Explanation: The repair of his glasses coincides with his growing insight into Danny’s world and his own prejudices, marking a turning point in his character development.

Foreshadowing

Silence Between Danny and His Father

Example: Early mentions of the silence between Danny and Reb Saunders foreshadow the complex exploration of their relationship and the themes of communication and understanding.
Explanation: This silence sets the stage for the novel’s deep dive into the importance and impact of communication within relationships, hinting at the challenges and resolutions to come.

Metaphor

Worlds of Light and Darkness

Example: Danny and Reuven’s respective communities are often described in terms of light and darkness, with Danny’s Hasidic world being one of mystical darkness and Reuven’s Modern Orthodox world being more enlightened.
Explanation: This metaphor illuminates the contrasts between tradition and modernity, ignorance and enlightenment, and the characters’ navigation of these dichotomies.

Allusion

Talmudic and Biblical References

Example: The frequent references to Talmudic stories and biblical figures throughout the novel serve to deepen the themes of faith, tradition, and moral dilemmas.
Explanation: These allusions provide a rich cultural and religious context, connecting the characters’ personal struggles to broader historical and spiritual narratives.

Imagery

Descriptions of Brooklyn

Example: Potok’s detailed descriptions of the Brooklyn neighborhood, with its vibrant Jewish community and bustling streets, create a vivid backdrop for the story.
Explanation: This imagery immerses the reader in the setting, making the cultural and historical context of the story palpable and enhancing the realism of the narrative.

Irony

Danny’s Choice of Study

Example: Danny’s pursuit of a career in psychology, despite his upbringing in a world where communication is fraught, is an example of situational irony.
Explanation: This choice highlights the ironic contrast between Danny’s personal experiences with silence and his desire to explore the human mind and communication.

Parallelism

Parallel Lives of Danny and Reuven

Example: The novel draws parallels between Danny and Reuven’s journeys towards understanding and self-discovery, despite their different backgrounds.
Explanation: This parallelism underscores the novel’s themes of friendship, identity, and the universal quest for meaning, showing how similar struggles and growth can occur in diverse contexts.

Personification

Silence as a Tangible Presence

Example: Silence is often described as a living, breathing entity between characters, particularly between Danny and his father.
Explanation: This personification of silence emphasizes its power and presence, highlighting how it can act as a barrier to, or a medium for, understanding and connection.

Juxtaposition

Tradition vs. Modernity

Example: The juxtaposition of Hasidic and Modern Orthodox Jewish lifestyles and beliefs throughout the novel highlights the tension between tradition and change.
Explanation: This device illuminates the characters’ struggles to find balance between preserving their heritage and embracing the modern world, reflecting broader cultural and religious dilemmas.

Flashback

Backstories of Characters

Example: Through flashbacks, readers learn about the histories of characters like Reb Saunders and David Malter, providing context for their actions and beliefs.
Explanation: These flashbacks enrich the narrative, offering deeper insight into the characters’ motivations and the historical and emotional landscapes that shape their lives.

These examples illustrate how Chaim Potok uses literary devices in “The Chosen” to enhance the narrative’s depth, enrich character development, and underscore the novel’s central themes.

The Chosen – FAQs

What is the main conflict in “The Chosen”? The main conflict revolves around the struggles of two boys, Reuven Malter and Danny Saunders, to reconcile their personal desires and ambitions with the expectations of their fathers and their religious communities. This conflict is set against the backdrop of the cultural and ideological differences between their respective Jewish traditions.

Who is Danny Saunders, and what is his internal struggle? Danny Saunders is a brilliant, Hasidic Jewish boy expected to inherit his father’s position as a rabbi. His internal struggle lies in his desire to break away from this predetermined path to pursue a career in psychology, a choice that puts him at odds with his community’s expectations and his father’s wishes.

How does Reuven Malter’s character change throughout the novel? Reuven Malter evolves from a boy with limited understanding of the Hasidic community and its customs to a compassionate and open-minded young man. His friendship with Danny and the challenges they face together lead him to a deeper understanding of faith, friendship, and the complexities of father-son relationships.

What role does silence play in “The Chosen”? Silence is a significant theme and symbol in the novel, particularly in the relationship between Danny and his father, Reb Saunders. It represents the complexities of communication and misunderstanding, serving both as a barrier to and a medium for deeper understanding and connection.

How does the setting of “The Chosen” influence the story? Set in Brooklyn, New York, during the 1940s, the setting reflects the diverse Jewish communities and the tensions between traditional and modern ways of life. The historical context, including World War II and the Holocaust, deeply influences the characters’ perspectives on faith, suffering, and the importance of taking action for what they believe in.

What is the significance of the title “The Chosen”? The title refers to the Jewish belief in being chosen by God, a concept that carries weight in both Danny’s and Reuven’s journeys. It also reflects the novel’s exploration of choice and destiny, as both boys navigate their paths and the expectations placed upon them by their families and communities.

Can “The Chosen” be considered a historical novel? While “The Chosen” is primarily a coming-of-age story set within a specific religious and cultural context, its setting during a pivotal time in history and its incorporation of historical events, such as the Holocaust and the formation of the state of Israel, lend it elements of a historical novel.

Quiz

Question	A	B	C	D
What initially brings Danny and Reuven together as friends?	Their mutual interest in psychology.	A baseball game.	A debate competition.	Their fathers’ friendship.
What is the main reason Danny is conflicted about his future?	He wants to move away from Brooklyn.	He is unsure about his faith.	He wants to study psychology instead of becoming a rabbi.	He dislikes studying the Talmud.
How does Reuven’s father, David Malter, differ in his religious views from Reb Saunders?	David is less strict about religious observance.	David is a Hasidic Jew.	David supports the creation of the state of Israel, while Reb Saunders does not.	David believes in complete isolation from the secular world.
What symbolizes the initial conflict and eventual friendship between Danny and Reuven?	A pair of broken glasses.	A silence pact.	A baseball.	A book.
Which event is NOT directly influencing the characters in “The Chosen”?	The Cold War.	The Holocaust.	The establishment of the state of Israel.	World War II.
What major decision does Danny make regarding his future?	To become a rabbi like his father.	To leave Brooklyn and travel the world.	To pursue a career in psychology.	To convert to another faith.
What is Reb Saunders’ unique method of raising Danny?	Teaching him only in silence.	Encouraging him to read secular books.	Sending him to a public school.	Making him work in the community.
Which theme is NOT explored in “The Chosen”?	The conflict between tradition and modernity.	The importance of silence in communication.	The impact of technology on society.	The struggle with personal identity and expectations.

This quiz is designed to test your comprehension of “The Chosen” and its intricate plot, characters, and themes. Each question focuses on critical elements of the story, encouraging a deeper understanding of the novel’s complexities.

Exercise

Identify the literary devices used in the following paragraph from “The Chosen”:

“In the silence that surrounded us, the world itself seemed to pause, a palpable presence between us, laden with meanings too profound to grasp. It was as if, in that moment, the very essence of our beings was distilled, revealing not just the pain of our individual journeys but the shared understanding that bound us together. This silence, so heavy and yet so fragile, was our unspoken language, whispering of fears, dreams, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.”

Answers:

Metaphor: “the world itself seemed to pause” – Compares the pause in their conversation to the world pausing, emphasizing the significance of the moment.
Personification: “a palpable presence between us” – Gives the silence a physical presence, enhancing its impact on the characters.
Symbolism: “This silence, so heavy and yet so fragile” – Silence symbolizes the complex and nuanced nature of their relationship and communication.
Imagery: “laden with meanings too profound to grasp” – Creates a vivid image of the depth and complexity of their feelings and the situation.
Parallelism: “whispering of fears, dreams, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship” – The use of parallel structure emphasizes the range and depth of what their silence communicates.

This exercise aims to deepen the understanding of how Chaim Potok uses literary devices to convey complex emotions and relationships in “The Chosen”.