WLIT 017 Lecture 4: Who are the survivors
18 Apr 2017
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The survivors had to prove to the german govt that they had suffered, in order to get the reparations. Experienced murder of immediate and extended family members. Exp unspeakable hardship (hunger, cold, subhuman living conditions, hard labor) Survivors differed in the degree and kind of emphasis they gave to the holocaust. Some talked about their exp and impressed on their children the importance of memory. Some did not mention their exp, tried to obliterate their influence. For some jewishness became inextricably bound to the holocaust. Depression - may result from inability to mourn, to engage in grief work . During the war: unable to afford the luxury. After the war: new pressures, responsibilities; wanted normal life; others were not interested. Survivors blame themselves for not having done more to save others. Survivors feel guilty for surviving when others who they consider worthier died. Survivors turn rage inward: instead of blaming nazis, they blame themselves.
