Themes: Coming-of-Age
During her teenage years, specifically from ages thirteen to fifteen, Frank lived in hiding with her family. Many readers find her emotions and experiences relatable, highlighting how the journey of growing up—with all its challenges, joys, and uncertainties—remains unchanged regardless of time, place, or situation. Adolescence is often a period of awkwardness and self-reflection, but Frank’s unique circumstances intensified these feelings. Like many teenagers, Frank experienced conflicts with her family, especially with her parents. Her tense relationship with her mother is a typical aspect of adolescence, as girls begin to assert their independence. Unlike most teenagers, however, Frank couldn't physically distance herself from her mother, which only widened the emotional gap between them. Frank's preference for her father became more evident due to their close living quarters, although her desire for independence eventually created some distance between them as well. Her relationship with her sister, Margot, was also typical; she felt unfairly compared to Margot, who was perceived as the ideal teenager by their parents. On July 12, 1942, she wrote, ‘‘[E]very day I feel myself drifting further away from Mother and Margot. I worked hard today and they praised me, only to start picking on me again five minutes later. You can easily see the difference between the way they deal with Margot and the way they deal with me.’’ Despite the sibling rivalry, the sisters grew closer over the years in hiding as Frank matured and they realized they had more in common than they initially thought.
Frank's teenage years were distinctive because Mr. and Mrs. Frank practiced a relatively progressive parenting style, allowing their daughters to express their individuality. The prevailing attitudes of the time were reflected by other characters, particularly Mrs. Van Daan, who was sometimes shocked by Frank’s seemingly undisciplined behavior.
At the beginning of her diary, Frank was lively, playful, and extremely curious. Her descriptions of people were typical of adolescent perceptions. For instance, on June 15, 1942, she described a classmate as ''a detestable, sneaky, stuck-up, two-faced gossip who thinks she's so grown-up.’’ Frank's self-confidence led her to believe that many boys in her class were infatuated with her. On June 20, 1942, she noted, ‘‘I have a throng of admirers who can't keep their adoring eyes off me and who sometimes have to resort to using a broken pocket mirror to try and catch a glimpse of me in the classroom.’’ Her interest in the opposite sex and her desire to appear attractive to boys were perfectly normal for a girl her age. Given the likelihood of not meeting any new boys for a long while, it’s not surprising that she reminisced about her previous admirers.
As Anne Frank's diary progresses, she increasingly uncovers her own identity, separate from that of her parents. On April 11, 1944, she writes, "I'm becoming more and more independent of my parents. ... If only I can be myself, I'll be satisfied. I know that I'm a woman, a woman with inner strength and a great deal of courage!" By her final entry, she has achieved a deeper self-awareness, recognizing that she still has much to learn about herself and the world around her. Frank begins to comprehend her complex identity, acknowledging both her strengths and weaknesses, while also forming a clearer vision of the woman she hopes to become.
Many readers find Anne Frank's romance with Peter to be predictable. They are at an age where young people become more aware of their sexuality, and Peter and Anne have only each other to explore these feelings with. Although Anne enjoys Peter's company and looks forward to their meetings, she understands they are not truly in love. On February 18, 1944, as their relationship begins to develop, she writes, "Don't think I'm in love, because I'm not, but I do have the feeling that something beautiful is going to develop between Peter and me, a kind of friendship and a feeling of trust." Amidst this budding romance, Anne experiences typical teenage emotional turmoil; on February 28, 1944, she admits, "I see him nearly every hour of the day and yet I can't be with him, I can't let the others notice, and I have to pretend to be cheerful, though my heart is aching." However, as she gets to know Peter better, she realizes she is further along in her journey of self-discovery than he is and is quickly outgrowing him.
Expert Q&A
How did the diary help Anne Frank overcome her loneliness?
The diary helped Anne Frank overcome her loneliness by providing her with a confidante she could trust. She named the diary "Kitty" and treated it like a dear friend, allowing her to express her thoughts and feelings freely. This emotional outlet helped her cope with the stress and confinement of the Secret Annex, offering her comfort and support when she needed it most.
How have Anne Frank's future plans changed?
Anne Frank's future plans shift from aspiring to be an actress or singer to wanting to become a writer. Initially desiring the spotlight, Anne's perspective changes over time in hiding. She begins to see the importance of using her voice through writing to raise awareness about the plight of Jewish people during the Holocaust. Her writing evolves from a personal pastime to a tool for making a difference, reflecting her growing maturity and sense of purpose.
How did Anne Frank differ from a typical teenager?
Anne Frank differed from a typical teenager mainly due to the severe social setting of Europe during the Holocaust, which imposed unique burdens on her. Unlike most teens, Anne faced the constant threat of persecution, yet her emotional experiences and aspirations were similar to those of other adolescents. Her writing has had a lasting impact, highlighting the importance of hearing all voices.
How does Anne Frank maintain optimism during the Holocaust in her diary?
How do others react to Anne's conflict with her mother in her diary? Do they intervene, and if so, whose side do they take?
Anne's conflict with her mother in her diary is primarily met with understanding rather than intervention. Margot, Anne's sister, adapts more easily to their situation, which makes Anne feel overshadowed and contributes to her frustration. Other family members and residents do not typically take Anne's side, as Margot is viewed as the "star child." The tensions are mostly minor arguments rather than serious fights, reflecting Anne's struggle to adapt to their circumstances.
How do excerpts like the one from Anne's diary entry on July 15, 1944, affect readers?
"in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. I simply can’t build my hopes on a foundation consisting of confusion, misery, and death. I see the world gradually being turned into a wilderness, I hear the ever approaching thunder, which will destroy us too, I can feel the sufferings of millions and yet, if I look up into the heavens, I think that it will all come right, that this cruelty too will end, and that peace and tranquility will return again."
Excerpts from Anne Frank's diary, such as her entry on July 15, 1944, profoundly affect readers by showcasing her optimism and faith in humanity despite her dire circumstances. This passage, in particular, highlights Anne's courage and hope, prompting reflection on her belief in human goodness even amidst war and suffering. Readers are moved by her youthful perspective and the tragic reality of her fate, evoking emotions like empathy, admiration, and sadness.
In "Anne Frank: the Diary of a Young Girl," how does Anne show maturity beyond her age?
How would you interpret the messages in the birthday poem Anne received from her father in The Diary of a Young Girl?
Why does Anne believe Margot has become less catty and more sweet?
Anne believes Margot has become less catty and more sweet because Margot now treats Anne as a real friend rather than a little kid. This change may stem from the necessity of getting along in their confined living space, Anne's growing affection for Peter, or Anne's own maturation and increased self-awareness. As Anne matures, her relationships, including the one with Margot, evolve, reflecting her transition from a moody child to a thoughtful young woman.
How does Anne describe her wishes during the bleak winter in her diary?
During the bleak winter, Anne Frank expresses her deep frustration about being confined in their secret apartment. She longs for freedom, wishing to cycle, dance, whistle, and feel the fresh air. Anne desires the normal life of a young girl, filled with fun and freedom, which has been stripped away due to their need to hide. She struggles with these feelings internally, knowing she cannot openly express her discontent without upsetting others.
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