Blog #8

Summary:

So far in the book Irene has finally been able to hide her Jewish Friends.  Ever since the Major has bought the Villa, Irene has been hiding her friends in the basement. Successfully putting them in there and not having to be locked up in the grating of the Major's bathroom being cramped.  Once the major leaves for work she usually locks the door telling the major only for safety purposes.  While at work Irene let's her friends out to eat and do whatever they want without getting caught.  One thing she's being doing is closing the curtains also.  One day the major came home early with SS men telling him that they suspected Jews around his house.  The major does not believe the SS men and tells Irene to show them every room they want to prove to them that there are no jews.  Major puts all his trust towards Irene making her a bit uncomfortable and guilty for her decisions she's been making.

Character Analysis

Irene's character traits are determined.  She's determined that her friends will be able to hide in the Villa without getting caught even though her friends do not agree with it.  In page 174 it states, "'Irene' Ida whispered 'You must turn us in.  This is too dangerous for you.' 'No! Just wait.  I'll let you have a break when I know the SS are gone.  Don't do anything until I get back!'' This piece of evidence shows that Irene is determined to keep hiding her friends even though they disagree and tell her to turn them in.  She is also brave for a 19 year old.  In page 158 it states, "'I'm sure of it,' I said. 'Once the work is completed, I'll find a way to smuggle you into it. It will be a week or two before the house is ready, though.  That will give us enough time to plan."  This piece of evidence shows that Irene is brave enough to make a plan for her friends to be safe and away from Rokita's plan, from making Ternopol Jewish free.