I would describe Hannah as a character who changes during the course of this coming-of-age novel.  Hannah does, however, have one trait that remains:  her stubbornness.  At the beginning, Hannah is annoyed with most every aspect of her Jewish faith during the Seder meal on Passover.  At the end, Hanna is determined not to let Rivka walk into the gas chamber.  Hannah’s obstinacy serves her well during the Holocaust. 

During the course of the story, Hannah displays more respect for her Jewish heritage. This inspires great bravery on her part.  Hannah’s bravery is first indicated when she announces the lies of the Nazis when the Jewish people at the synagogue are about to be herded into trucks.  Of course, no one believes Hannah at this point.  Hannah’s ultimate act of bravery comes when she tells Rivka to run while Hannah takes Rivka’s place in the gas chamber.  In this way, Hannah completes her journey from selfishness to selflessness.  Hannah’s transformation is a beautiful one.