Written by Chaim Potok, The Chosen takes place during significant moments in world history. The Chosen begins at the end of World War II in Williamsburg where it was heavily populated by Jews in 1940s. Throughout the book, The Chosen includes various actions in 1940s related to political situations in the world at that time. Those events are not mere backdrops but contribute significantly to plot and content. Among them, there are five significant historical events that influence on Malter’s and Saunders’ families. It includes D-Day, the death of President Roosevelt, the end of World War II, the Holocaust revelation in Europe, and the struggle for the State of Israel creation. Each of those historical affairs shows its effects on main characters
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Later, the state of Israel is formally proclaimed on May 14, 1948 (Potok 239). The creation of the State of Israel pleases Reuven and David. Thus, as soon as the State of Israel is founded, Reb Saunders’ anti-Zionism League is ceased. Furthermore, Reb lifts the ban that has separated Danny from Reuven, and Danny is permitted to talk to Reuven. The resumption of Danny and Reuven’s friendship shows a solid connection between personal and historical events. In addition, the historical or political occasions in the beginning of The Chosen mostly influence on the relationship between Reuven and Danny. Those events are focused on making them to understand and support each other more while getting older and maturing. However, since the Holocaust revelation, the historical events are more focused on Reb Saunders’ and David Malter’s positions. Their disparate positions according to conflicting beliefs effect on both Reuven and Danny and overall Jewish community. The conflict between David and Reb has been uncompromising before the creation of the State of Israel. The foundation of the State of Israel relieves tensions between two men. In addition, for Reb Saunders, he reveals true reasons why he has treated Danny harshly and asks for forgiveness from Danny indirectly through Reuven. It shows that historical affairs not only have direct or indirect impact on characters’ reasons but also have great influence on their
Later, the state of Israel is formally proclaimed on May 14, 1948 (Potok 239). The creation of the State of Israel pleases Reuven and David. Thus, as soon as the State of Israel is founded, Reb Saunders’ anti-Zionism League is ceased. Furthermore, Reb lifts the ban that has separated Danny from Reuven, and Danny is permitted to talk to Reuven. The resumption of Danny and Reuven’s friendship shows a solid connection between personal and historical events. In addition, the historical or political occasions in the beginning of The Chosen mostly influence on the relationship between Reuven and Danny. Those events are focused on making them to understand and support each other more while getting older and maturing. However, since the Holocaust revelation, the historical events are more focused on Reb Saunders’ and David Malter’s positions. Their disparate positions according to conflicting beliefs effect on both Reuven and Danny and overall Jewish community. The conflict between David and Reb has been uncompromising before the creation of the State of Israel. The foundation of the State of Israel relieves tensions between two men. In addition, for Reb Saunders, he reveals true reasons why he has treated Danny harshly and asks for forgiveness from Danny indirectly through Reuven. It shows that historical affairs not only have direct or indirect impact on characters’ reasons but also have great influence on their