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Set against the backdrop of World War II, "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" unfolds through the innocent eyes of Bruno, an eight-year-old whose father is the commandant of a concentration camp. The forbidden friendship between Bruno and a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence serves as a poignant narrative that delves into moral conflicts, the pursuit of power, and the racial discrimination inherent in the heart of the Second World War.
While the narrative portrays the moral disagreement inherent in the characters' actions, it is essential to recognize the broader socio-political context.
In the midst of World War II, individuals faced a pervasive atmosphere of fear and oppression under Hitler's dominance. The commandant's actions, while seemingly reprehensible, need to be viewed through the lens of societal expectations. The prevailing sentiment of the time encouraged the vilification of Jews, making it socially acceptable, and even promoted, to participate in the discriminatory practices within the prison camps.
Bruno's sister, a product of her environment, quickly internalizes the prevailing ideology, developing a hatred for the Jews as society dictates.
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The film vividly captures the indoctrination of the younger generation into the discriminatory beliefs of the dominant group. Understanding the commandant's actions requires acknowledging the complex interplay between individual morality and the powerful currents of societal influence during that tumultuous period.
The functionalist perspective provides valuable insights into the dynamics of World War II, particularly through the lens of cultural assimilation.
Cultural assimilation, or acculturation, occurs when individuals adopt dominant-group traits, such as language, dress, values, religion, and food preferences. In the context of "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," Germans are forced to conform to the values and traits dictated by the Nazi party.
The consequences of non-conformity are severe, with punishments mirroring the cruelty faced by the Jews. Racial segregation, another concept rooted in the functionalist perspective, is starkly portrayed in the film. Spatial and social separation based on race, ethnicity, class, gender, and/or religion is evident in scenes where the stark contrast between the treatment of Jews and Germans is palpable. The mistreatment and abuse suffered by the Jews solely due to their race underscore the deeply ingrained beliefs of superiority and inferiority perpetuated during this dark period of history.
Delving deeper into the film, it becomes evident that "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" serves as a powerful critique of the societal norms that perpetuated prejudice and discrimination. Bruno, being too young to comprehend the prevailing prejudices, represents a glimmer of innocence amidst a sea of hatred. His friendship with the Jewish boy challenges the established norms, hinting at the possibility of unity beyond the divisive constructs of the time.
As the narrative unfolds, the audience witnesses the dehumanization of the "enemy" solely based on race. The film, through its portrayal of racial segregation, prompts reflection on the consequences of blind conformity to societal norms and the devastating impact of prejudice. The unexpected consequences of Bruno's forbidden friendship serve as a poignant reminder that humanity can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.
In conclusion, "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" offers a profound exploration of moral dilemmas, societal pressures, and the insidious nature of discrimination during World War II. The film serves as a mirror reflecting the consequences of blind conformity to societal norms and the enduring power of innocence amidst the darkest chapters of history. By unraveling the threads of prejudice, the narrative challenges us to confront the unseen dimensions of war and strive for a world where humanity prevails over hatred.
An Analysis of "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas"</. (2016, Jul 14). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/the-boy-in-the-striped-pajamas-essay
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