The White Rose And The Swastika Analysis

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The White Rose and the Swastika is a play written by Adrian Flynn, it is based on the true story of a brother and sister and how their initial enthusiasm for Hitler and the Nazi regime turned to brave resistance. In Munich, Hans, Sophie and their friends form "The White Rose", producing leaflets which fiercely attack Hitler's Government. If the Gestapo find out who is responsible, they will undoubtedly be killed. As the leaflets appear far and wide, dissent begins to spread among students. The White Rose work tirelessly, determined to oppose Hitler at all costs, but at the end, all hope and love are lost by the children of Robert and Magdalene as they are driven into the shadows of death. In this essay, I shall be discussing the characterisation …show more content…

During Act 1, Scene 1, Hans is portrayed as an obstinate and unshakeable boy. The author highlights these characteristics very clearly, this quote illustrates Hans’ stubborn attitude very well, when he says “ [Moving off] And I won’t listen to any more cynical rubbish about Hitler. [turns to Werner and Sophie] Coming? ” Firstly it is worth considering what effect as a reader this quote has on us. The word cynical tells us that Hans’ does not tolerate any false and dishonest actions or words against Hitler. This behaviour tells us, as readers that Hans feels very strongly about Hitler and has a lot of respect for him. This attitude can be seen similarly in Act 1, Scene 5 when Hans says “ Hitler’s not a madman. He’s a visionary. ” This quote evidently indicates that Hans does not approve of any misanthropical behaviour towards Hitler. As readers the effect is that we build up a strong understanding that Hans is a very potent ally to Hitler. Likewise, Hans’ supportive attitude to Hitler can be seen in correspondingly in Act 1, Scene 5 when Hans says “ No! That’s simply foreign propaganda. The Fuhrer has promised we won’t take any more land. But we need a proper army, so that France and England won’t pick on us. We’re becoming strong again. We can be proud of our country. And that’s all because of Hitler.

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