Literature Study Notes – Boy in Striped Pyjamas
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Boys in Striped Pyjamas
Boys in Striped Pyjamas is a widely taught novel in Lower Secondary schools in Singapore. It is valuable text that has been in MOE Literature Syllabus for Lower Secondary schools for many years. The novel is set during the Holocaust which is one of the most pivotal and tragic events in modern history.
Teaching this book in our local school provides our students with an insight to history, particularly the horrors of World War II, Nazi Germany, and the concentration camps. It promotes critical thinking and introduces complex topics such as genocide, prejudice, and the effects of war, but in a way that is relatable and understandable for younger readers, especially through the perspective of an innocent child, our protagonist Bruno.
Many of our tutors have taught or are teaching this book in local schools. Reach out to our team of English and Literature ex and current MOE teachers from top schools like ACS, MGS, Victoria School, Hwa Chong, RI, River Valley, Crescent Girls and many more. Let your child have the support they need to excel in both English and English Literature.
Boys in Striped Pyjamas Themes
What is the novel about?
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne is a poignant and thought-provoking story set during one of the darkest periods in human history: Nazi Germany. Through the eyes of a young boy named Bruno, we will witness how the cruel realities of war and prejudice collide with the purity and curiosity of a child. The journey of Bruno, a boy unaware of the world he’s stepping into, serves as both a poignant exploration of innocence and an unsettling reminder of the consequences of hatred and blind obedience.
What are the themes of this book? Quotations from Boy in Striped Pyjamas
- Innocence is a central theme in the novel. Bruno and Shmuel both embody childlike innocence, but their situations are starkly different. Shmuel, a prisoner at Auschwitz, has witnessed terrible horrors, while Bruno is shielded by his parents from the harsh realities of the Holocaust. Bruno never knew what his father does exactly, in Chapter One, the readers witness how Bruno questioning his father’s job “‘What kind of job?’ asked Bruno, because if he was honest with himself – which he always tried to be – he wasn’t entirely sure what job Father did” Chapter 1. His parents go to great lengths to keep Bruno unaware of his father’s role in the Nazi regime. Through the use of contrast between Bruno’s innocence and the evil of the Holocaust, readers realises the devastating effects of prejudice and hatred, showing that such negative behaviours are learned.
- Friendship
The novel also explores the theme of friendship, particularly how vital it is in childhood. Bruno and Shmuel, though living in completely different worlds, both yearn for companionship. In Chapter 6, Bruno’s desire for friends and companionship is highly evident when he shares how ‘talking to a maid wasn’t quite the same thing as having some friends to talk to, there was no oneelse around to have a conversation with and it made much moresense than talking to himself.’ Despite their contrasting circumstances, the bond between Bruno and Shmuel grows stronger, even though it faces numerous challenges. For example, when Shmuel is forced to work at Bruno’s house, Bruno denies knowing him and refuses to share food, which leads to Shmuel being punished. Their friendship must be kept a secret, as both boys understand the risks of being caught. In the end, they unknowingly walk to their deaths together, united by their friendship.
How is this relevant to Secondary school students in Singapore?
The novel allows students to explore important themes like empathy, the impact of upbringing on values, friendship and the loss of innocence in the face of hate. This resonates deeply with adolescent students in Singapore as they develop their own sense of morality and awareness of the world. In this highly volatile world that we live in, students can explore issues such as racism, discrimination and how we can overcome such challenges today.
How can my child achieve an A for literature or language arts?
Achieving a distinction for Literature for The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas involves more than just understanding the plot. Your child will need to demonstrate critical thinking, a deep understanding of the text, and the ability to analyse and evaluate its themes, characters, and literary techniques. Your child need to have a clear understanding of the themes and key answering techniques in writing Literature Essays. Our professional team of MOE teachers both ex and current, will be able to support your child’s learning and help them excel in their language arts, igcse literature or English. Contact us via whatsapp or click here to request for a literature tutor in Singapore. We have 1 to 1 private tuition or small group classes (in-person or online).
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