Oskar Schindler: A Complex Portrait of Morality

Categories: Personal

Introduction

Oskar Schindler, adorned with a conspicuous gold pin, navigated the complex terrain of Nazi Germany with a facade of compliance to the regime. A married man entangled in a web of personal relationships, Schindler's reputation as a shrewd businessman, involved in clandestine dealings and thriving through bribery, painted a stark contrast to the altruistic narrative that would later unfold.

Oskar Schindler's Business Ventures

As Schindler established his wartime business, he opportunistically enlisted Jews from the ghetto as employees, seemingly motivated by personal gain.

Compensating his workers with products from his factory, such as pots and pans, allowed them to barter within the confines of the ghetto. The incongruity between Schindler's profit-oriented business practices and his later humanitarian actions, which saved eleven hundred Jews, raises questions about his true motivations.

The Devaluation of Jewish Lives

While the movie depicts a triumphant scene of surviving Jews and their descendants, the overarching tragedy cannot be ignored. In commemorating Schindler's deeds, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the six million Jewish lives lost during the Holocaust.

Get quality help now
Dr. Karlyna PhD
Dr. Karlyna PhD
checked Verified writer

Proficient in: Personal

star star star star 4.7 (235)

“ Amazing writer! I am really satisfied with her work. An excellent price as well. ”

avatar avatar avatar
+84 relevant experts are online
Hire writer

The Nazis, epitomized by figures like Amon Goeth, regarded Jews as sub-human, engaging in arbitrary acts of violence reminiscent of hunting for sport. Schindler's ability to purchase the lives he saved underscores the grim reality of the era—Jewish lives were, in essence, commodities that could be bought and sold within the Nazi framework.

Schindler's Impact and Legacy

Despite the somber backdrop, the legacy of the eleven hundred Schindler Jews is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Get to Know The Price Estimate For Your Paper
Topic
Number of pages
Email Invalid email

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy. We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

"You must agree to out terms of services and privacy policy"
Write my paper

You won’t be charged yet!

Over six thousand descendants now exist, representing a glimmer of hope in the face of overwhelming darkness. The existence of Germans, including Schindler, who deviated from the prevailing mass murder ideology, offers a nuanced perspective on a nation grappling with its history. Some of these individuals, instrumental in reshaping Germany's trajectory, have contributed to the country becoming a global advocate for peace.

Conclusion

Oskar Schindler's story, as portrayed in the film, encapsulates the moral complexities of individuals during a harrowing period in history. From a seemingly self-serving businessman to a savior of lives, Schindler's transformation challenges us to contemplate the shades of morality within the context of Nazi Germany. As we reflect on the profound impact of his actions, we are reminded that, in the face of immense darkness, even one life saved can reverberate through generations, shaping a more compassionate world.

Updated: Dec 29, 2023
Cite this page

Oskar Schindler: A Complex Portrait of Morality. (2017, Jan 10). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/schindlers-list-personal-reflection-essay

Oskar Schindler: A Complex Portrait of Morality essay
Live chat  with support 24/7

👋 Hi! I’m your smart assistant Amy!

Don’t know where to start? Type your requirements and I’ll connect you to an academic expert within 3 minutes.

get help with your assignment