In Thomas Keneally's "Schindler's List," I am profoundly moved by the stark portrayal of humanity amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.
This compelling narrative, based on true events, offers a gripping examination of courage, moral ambiguity, and the redemptive power of altruism during one of history's darkest times.
"Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire." – Itzhak Stern
This profound statement by Stern, echoing the Talmud, captures the moral core of the story. It underscores the immense value of individual human life, a theme that resonates deeply with me as it emphasizes the impact one person can have on the world.
"He who saves a single soul, saves the universe." – Chaja Dresner
Chaja’s version of this sentiment also reflects the Jewish teaching about the importance of life, emphasizing the broader, universal implications of Schindler’s actions.
"Beyond this place of wrath and tears looms but the Horror of the shade, and yet the menace of the years finds, and shall find, me unafraid." – Oskar Schindler
Schindler quotes from William Ernest Henley’s poem "Invictus" to inspire courage among those around him. This quote always strikes a chord with me for its defiance and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
"Power is when we have every justification to kill, and we don't." – Oskar Schindler
This declaration by Schindler to Amon Goeth, the brutal Nazi commandant, encapsulates the ethical paradoxes of power and mercy. It’s a poignant reminder of the human capacity for both immense cruelty and great kindness.
"I am a member of the Nazi Party. I'm a munitions manufacturer. I'm a profiteer of slave labor. I am... a criminal." – Oskar Schindler
Schindler’s own reflection on his actions and identity highlights the complexity of his character—a flawed man who does the right thing. This self-awareness brings a nuanced depth to his heroism, which I find particularly compelling.
"You can tell yourself that you would be willing to lose everything you have for the sake of justice, for the sake of love. You can say that because you did not have to make that choice." – Amon Goeth
This cynical view from Goeth challenges the idealistic notions of morality under extreme circumstances, providing a stark contrast to Schindler’s actions. It serves as a harsh critique of moral passivity.
"The list is an absolute good. The list is life. All around its margins lies the gulf." – Itzhak Stern
Stern’s words about the list of Jews saved by Schindler highlight it as a symbol of hope and salvation. This perspective deeply affects me as it underscores the tangible difference one individual's actions can make in the lives of many.
"My children, you should know something. I am a drunkard and a gambler, but I am not a murderer." – Oskar Schindler
Schindler’s candid admission to his workers reflects his complex personality, marked by vices but defined by a fundamental moral stand against murder. It’s a humanizing revelation that adds layers to his character.
"I could have got more out. I could have got more. I don't know. If I'd just... I could have got more." – Oskar Schindler
Schindler’s lament near the end of the story is one of the most heart-wrenching moments, filled with regret and the haunting burden of those he couldn’t save. This moment always reminds me of the endless pursuit of doing good in the face of evil.
"He who changes one person, changes the world entire." – A Survivor’s Testament
This testament by a survivor, reflecting on Schindler's impact, encapsulates the profound effect of individual actions on humanity. It’s a testament that motivates me to believe in the power of individual actions to create ripples of change.
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