Thomas Keneally’s “Schindler’s Ark” (also published as “Schindler’s List”) offers a profound exploration of the complex nature of righteousness and virtue through the character of Oskar Schindler.
Here’s an examination of how Keneally engages with these themes:
- Ambiguity of Motives: Keneally portrays Schindler as a complex and morally ambiguous figure. Initially motivated by self-interest and opportunism, Schindler gradually evolves as a character, driven by a growing sense of empathy and moral responsibility towards the Jewish workers in his factory. His motives for saving them are not purely altruistic but are also influenced by factors such as profit and personal ambition.
- Acts of Compassion: Despite his flaws, Schindler’s actions demonstrate moments of genuine compassion and humanity. He risks his own safety and reputation to protect his Jewish workers, going to great lengths to ensure their survival in the face of Nazi persecution. His efforts to provide food, shelter, and protection for the Jews in his employ highlight his capacity for empathy and moral courage.
- Moral Compromise: Keneally does not shy away from depicting Schindler’s moral compromises and ethical dilemmas. Schindler’s collaboration with the Nazi regime, including his involvement in war profiteering and exploitation of slave labor, raises questions about the limits of moral agency in a morally bankrupt system. Despite his efforts to save lives, Schindler remains complicit in the broader atrocities of the Holocaust, prompting reflection on the complexities of individual responsibility in the face of systemic evil.
- Redemption and Transformation: Through Schindler’s character arc, Keneally explores themes of redemption and personal transformation. Schindler’s journey from a morally ambiguous opportunist to a compassionate rescuer reflects a gradual awakening of conscience and a reevaluation of his values and priorities. His efforts to save as many Jews as possible become a form of atonement for his past actions, illustrating the capacity for human beings to change and grow morally even in the darkest of times.
- Legacy and Memory: Keneally underscores the enduring impact of Schindler’s actions on the lives of the survivors and their descendants. Schindler’s Ark, symbolizing the vessel of salvation, becomes a powerful metaphor for hope and resilience in the face of unimaginable suffering. Through Schindler’s story, Keneally emphasizes the importance of bearing witness to the past and preserving the memory of those who perished in the Holocaust, ensuring that their stories are not forgotten.
In conclusion, Thomas Keneally’s portrayal of Oskar Schindler in “Schindler’s Ark” offers a nuanced exploration of the complexities of righteousness and virtue in the context of the Holocaust. By examining Schindler’s moral journey, Keneally invites readers to grapple with questions of moral responsibility, human frailty, and the transformative power of compassion in the face of overwhelming evil.