Student Question
What is Pavel's history in John Boyne's The Boy in The Striped Pajamas?
Quick answer:
Pavel, originally a doctor, works as a servant in Bruno's family home due to being Jewish during World War II. His quiet demeanor reflects the need to be cautious under Nazi rule. Pavel's history highlights the harsh persecution of Jews, as even educated professionals like doctors are forced into servitude. His treatment by Lt. Kotler and his interactions with Bruno expose the young boy to the brutal realities of the Holocaust.
During the events of the book, Pavel works in Bruno's family home as a servant. Originally, he was a doctor. However, because he is Jewish, he has to be very careful. As a result, he is very quiet and solemn. Later in the book, he faces an attack by Lt. Kotler, a Nazi soldier, for spilling on him during a meal.
Pavel's history is important because although he was intelligent and a doctor, because he was Jewish he was forced to play the servant in order to survive. This opens Bruno's eyes to the violence and cruelty inflicted on the Jewish people during WWII. The Jews are persecuted so harshly that even a doctor is prevented from practicing. As a child Bruno is at first ignorant to these realities, but through Pavel, truly comes to see them.
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