Question

In Act II, Scene 4 of The Diary of Anne Frank, Anne and Peter have retreated to Peter’s room to escape the nervous tension created by the incessant ringing of the telephone. In their discussion, Anne declares, "I still believe, in spite of everything, that people are really good at heart." In your journal, discuss the meaning behind this statement. Then, put yourself in Anne’s shoes. Would you have the same sentiments about human nature? Why or why not? Your response should contain specific supporting details from the text, and should be about 150 words in length.

Answer 1

Answer:

The meaning behind the statement is that What is done cannot be undone. but that one can prevent it from happening again.

Explanation:

At a time when the Nazis sought to kill all the jews of Europe, Anne was an ordinary girl in an extraordinary time. The events recorded in Anne Franks diary took place during the World war 2. Both prior to the war and throughout the war years, The Nazis continously depicted the Jews as Sub-human and as vermin.

The Franks family had to go into hiding to avoid getting killed. Throughout the families time in hiding, Anne kept a diary of everything that happened. Anne retained a positive outlook on life even though she had to remain hiding.

She still believed that in spite of everything that people are truly good at heart. that what is done cannot be undone but that one can prevent it from happening again. in her words "dont think of all the misery but of the beauty that still remains" and that who ever is happy will make others happy too.

Anne Franks believes that no matter what we maybe facing, that we should look up to the heavens and everything will be alright and that the cruelty will end and peace will return.

Asking if i will have the same sentiments about human nature; i would say yes. my reason being that we must continue believing in the best even when faced with the worst.