Essay Questions

How does this text show the importance of forgiveness?

In The Aftermath, Lewis shows Stefan and his daughter kindness and mercy in allowing them to stay on in their homes. Unlike many British people in the aftermath of World War II, Lewis is able to put his grievances aside and forgive Stefan for the wrongdoings of his country. This is admirable considering his own son died in the war. Lewis understands that it is truly the German leadership who should be held accountable, and not German civilians.

Rachael also undergoes a journey from resentment to forgiveness in this novel. Due to the loss of her son, she resents Stefan because he is German, and doesn't want him to stay in the house. However, she later realizes that Stefan himself lost his wife in the war. Here she understands that German people lost loved ones to and allows herself to forgive Stefan.

How does the author emphasize the extreme poverty in Germany after World War II?

There is an exploration of poverty in Germany following World War II. The Allies have taken control of Germany, and the German civilians are left starving and often homeless. The story begins with a description of a street boy called Ozi, who is chasing a beast. He is dressed in rags, which represents the depravation and poverty he is living through. Throughout the text we encounter other street children like Ozi. They are starving and are often seen begging for food.