The Book Thief

The Book Thief has been filled with tons of good quotes. However, one that stuck out to me the most occurred on page 208. When Max arrives at the Hubermann residence, he is forced to live in the basement to avoid being seen. The living arrangement is not the best, and Hans goes as far as saying that it is pathetic. Max doesn't seem to mind and is still thankful. He then says, "'Better than nothing,' Max assured him. 'Better than I deserve- thank you.'" This quote really stuck out to me because it seemed as if not only the Nazis were looking down on the Jews, but even the Jews themselves were not proud of who they were. Max views himself as not being worthy of the luxeries that the others have throughout Germany. This once again emphasizes the power of words. Not only did Hitler's words turn Germans against the Jews, but it also made the Jews look down on themselves. When you don't like yourself, how do you expect others to view you any better?