THE IRONY OF THE DIARY'S SURVIVAL

The normal procedure of the Gestapo was to burn the papers of the prisoners taken into custody. They wanted to destroy any evidence of Nazi inhumanity or autocracy. When the Gestapo enters the secret annex and captures its occupants, they also gather the papers that they find, even emptying the briefcases of the men. Ironically, they leave behind Anne's diary, for it does not seem to be a threat.

When Elli and Miep enter the secret annex to see what they can save for the Franks and van Daans, they find Anne's diary. They lovingly keep it, waiting for the Franks to return. Unfortunately, only Otto Frank survives the concentration camp. When he returns to Amsterdam after the war, Anne's diary is given to him. He decides to publish it in tribute to his daughter.

It is ironic that the Gestapo overlooked the diary, for it is one of the most condemning treatises of Nazi inhumanity ever to be published. The diary has been translated into more than thirty languages and read throughout the world. Anne's story, and her treatment at the hands of the Nazis, has also been widely viewed in plays and movies. Even though Anne died in a Nazi concentration camp, her spirit will always live on. It seems that Anne really won, while Hitler lost.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. In the pages of the diary, Anne Frank describes several conflicts that she faces. Explain what they are.

2. Anne describes the many ways that Jews were discriminated against and persecuted by Hitler. Explain what they are.

3. Contrast the relationship that Anne has with her mother and her father.

4. Explain how Anne feels about Margot and why.

5. Mr. Dussel and Mrs. van Daan are particularly troublesome to Anne. Explain why.

6. Describe what daily life was like in the secret annex.

7. Anne definitely matures during the two years she stays in the annex. Explain how she has changed between the beginning and end of the diary.

8. Explain all the reasons that the diary is important to Anne.

9. Explain how the relationship between Anne and Peter develops.

10. What are the two primary themes of the diary and how are they developed.

11. Who are the Dutch protectors and what do they do for the occupants in the secret annex?

12. What happens to the occupants of the annex after they are discovered by the Gestapo?

13. Why do you think that the diary has become a classic piece of literature, translated into more than thirty languages?