Chapter 6

• On pg 60 Bruno reveals a radical shift in his perspective and understanding of Maria. What is this radical shift? What does this show is developing in Bruno?

Bruno shows the radical shift in his perspective and understanding of Maria by seeing her as being a person compared to his previous thoughts of her just being 'the maid'. This change in understanding about Maria's life may represent how Bruno is starting to mature and how his becoming more compassionate to all people alluding to how he sees the Jews.

• Compare how Bruno and Gretel treat Maria.

• Bruno after learning discovering about Maria's life and why she had become the maid for the family starts to treat her with compassion. Juxtaposed to how Gretel treats Maria as an object to make life easier for her this highlights Bruno's new understanding about her.

• (pg 65) What is Maria's advice to Bruno about 'keeping safe'? Why do you think that she gives this advice? Do you think that it is good or bad advice?

• Maria's advice to Bruno in 'keeping safe' is that to listen to his father and keep his own mouth shut this advice shows the fear that Maria possesses because she has more knowledge than Bruno about their current situation. This could be considered good advice as she is genuinely concerned about Bruno's well being.

• (65-6) What is Bruno's reaction to his new thoughts/feelings? Why do you think that he reacts this way?

• Bruno's reaction to his new thoughts about Maria and how he used to treat her when he sees Gretel treat her the way he used to is to listen to all people and to know them. This alludes to his understanding of the Jews torments and how the Germans could not understand them as people.