The Changing Nature of the Relationship Between Elie and His Father in Night Emily Maree Darmanin 11th Grade

In the novel ‘Night’, it is clear to see there is a changing relationship between Elie and his father. On first impression, ‘he called out to me and I had not answered’, seems to indicate that the relationship has ceased. However, the change in the nature of their relationship is far more complex than it appears. This complexity is shown from the days before the arrival of the Nazis, to the initial experiences in the camp, to the final moments they share together. Throughout this novel we see there is an ever-changing and developing relationship between Elie and his father.

At the start of the text, Elie’s father is very distant from his family and seems to be ‘more involved with the welfare of others that with that of his own kin.’ At this stage of the story Elie and his father’s relationship is very distant and disconnected. This is further underlined by his father’s lack of interest in Elie’s faith - ‘he wanted to drive the idea of studying kabbalah from my mind’ - causing Elie to seek fatherly guidance and support from Moishe the Beadle. Their relationship begins to change when the Nazi’s first arrive in town, as Elie’s father starts to show emotion towards Elie, their relationship begins to draw closer: ‘My father was...