In "The Devil's Arithmetic" by Jane Yolen, the theme of resilience is developed through the experiences and growth of the protagonist, Hannah Stern (or Chaya, her name in the past). This novel, set during the Holocaust, portrays the strength and endurance of individuals in the face of unimaginable hardship and suffering.

1. Hannah/Chaya's Transformation: At the beginning of the story, Hannah is a modern girl who shows little interest in her Jewish heritage. However, when she is transported back in time to a Polish village during World War II, she becomes Chaya, a Jewish girl living through the Holocaust. This transformation is pivotal in developing the theme of resilience, as Hannah must quickly adapt to her new reality. Her initial confusion and fear give way to a determined spirit as she learns to cope with the harsh conditions of the concentration camp.

2. Community Support: The novel emphasizes the importance of community and solidarity in fostering resilience. The characters in the concentration camp support one another, sharing stories, offering comfort, and maintaining a sense of identity and humanity despite the dehumanizing conditions. This collective resilience is a source of strength for Chaya and others.

3. Preservation of Culture and Memory: Resilience is also portrayed through the characters' efforts to preserve their culture and memories. By telling stories and singing songs, they resist the erasure of their identity and history. This act of cultural preservation is a form of resistance against the oppressive forces they face.

4. Individual Acts of Bravery: Throughout the novel, individual acts of bravery and sacrifice highlight personal resilience. Characters like Rivka, who teaches Hannah the rules for survival, and the defiant acts of other prisoners, demonstrate courage and a refusal to give up hope, even in the direst circumstances.

5. Hannah's Return and Understanding: By the end of the novel, Hannah returns to her own time with a deeper understanding and appreciation of her heritage and the resilience of those who lived through the Holocaust. Her journey underscores the enduring human spirit and the importance of remembering and honoring those who showed incredible strength in the face of adversity.

Through these narrative elements, Jane Yolen effectively develops the theme of resilience, highlighting both the individual and collective strength required to endure and resist in the face of overwhelming challenges.