Dawn

Consider how familial bonds connect with Dawn’s primary themes. How does the experience of family differ for the main characters?

What role do sex and sexuality play in the novel? Compare and contrast how Elisha and Catherine each view their sexual relationship.

What is the significance of stories and storytelling as a motif in Dawn?

How does this book reflect and explore Elie Wiesel’s philosophies and beliefs around Zionism? How is Wiesel’s relationship to Zionism different from and/or similar to Elisha’s? Do you think Dawn expresses support for or rejection of Igrun and/or Revisionist Zionism?

The book describes several different rabbis: Elisha’s “old master,” Gideon’s father, and the rabbi who Elisha imagines tending to David ben Moshe at his execution. Compare and contrast these three figures. What are these rabbis’ roles in the narrative? What is their symbolic importance?

Analyze Elisha’s narrative voice. How does it contribute to his characterization? How do the things he thinks compare to the things he says?

Compare and contrast Dawn with Day and/or Night. How does grouping these books together impact their messaging and meanings?

What is the role of time in the novel? Consider its function both narratively and thematically.