A Family Matter

This page depicts the reunification of Valdek with his parents after he escaped from being a POW. The meeting is the only time we really see an interaction between Valdek and his parents. Initially the view is through a window as though we are outside observers to a scene of the what a normal homecoming of Valdek might look like. However, immediately after we are inside with them and it is clear that the homecoming is not typical and neither is the family vibe that is going on. Valdek notices that his mother is sick, but that does not really delay him as much as we would hope. His mother ends their reunion quickly to get him back to Anja. It is clear that their family has a unique set of values with the son abandoning a sick mother to go see his wife instead of attempting to care for her in some way. Then, upon further analysis it is apparent that their family is not the what should be scrutinized. The true issue is the Nazi power. Had the "curfew" not been 7:00 Valdek could have listened to his father's troubles and investigated his mother's health. Instead, they are forced to make sure he gets to Anja: "I must bring Valdek home to Anja before curfew." Specifically using "must" emphasizes how the curfew has been imposed on them despite the fact that it is negatively affecting them. The disruption of normal family life is a small example how the Germans managed to dehumanize the Jews. Valdek and his parents are denied and capability of maintaining a family bond.