Maus

Maus
Author: Art Spiegelman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Biography and Memoir
Published: 1986
Number of Pages: 160
Lexile Level: 870L

Summary
This is an interesting hybrid of a graphic novel and memoir. The story begins a generation after the Holocaust, with author Art Spiegelman interviewing his father, Vladek, about his experiences during the Holocaust. Vladek recounts his life as a Polish Jew, his experiences in the Polish army, his capture by the Nazis, and his time in concentration camps. He describes the horrors of the Holocaust, including starvation, disease, and the constant threat of death. The Jewish characters are portrayed as mice, the Germans as cats, and the Polish as pigs. This approach emphasizes the power dynamic between the Jews and their oppressors while reinforcing the popularized idea that Jews were vermin. The narrative explores the complex relationship between Art and Vladek, marked by both love and frustration. Art struggles to understand his father's generation and the trauma they endured.
Main Themes
1. Family: The story delves into the complex relationship between Art and Vladek, exploring themes of love, loss, and intergenerational trauma.
2. Survival and Trauma The story delves into the harrowing experiences of Vladek Spiegelman, a Holocaust survivor, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of survival. The trauma of the Holocaust affects Vladek’s relationships and worldview long after the war.
3. The Dehumanizing Effects of War: The use of animal imagery to represent different nationalities underscores the dehumanizing effects of war and prejudice.
Why Maus is Appropriate for Middle School and High School
For fans of graphic novels, Maus is a great choice. It explores universal themes such as family, loss, and the father-son relationship, and its struggles will resonate with many young teens. Maus provides a firsthand account of the Holocaust, helping young readers understand the atrocities of the past and the importance of remembering history. It also revolves around a Polish Jew, which will help young readers understand the scope of the Holocaust. Due to its mature content, including depictions of violence and complex emotional themes, Maus is best suited for older adolescents who can thoughtfully engage with its subject matter.