OPPapers.com

Anne Frank

The diary of Anne Frank, written over a two-year period, tells
about her life while she and her family are in hiding in Holland.
They are staying in a secret attic of the office building where Mr.
Frank used to work in order to escape from the Nazis during World
War II. During their stay in the annex, they are supported by
several people in the office building, who risk their own lives to
insure the secrecy of the Jewish hideout and to provide them with
food and basic supplies.

Much of Anne's diary tells about the daily routine of the occupants
of the attic. It also describes in detail the characters of Anne's
father, mother, and sister, as well as the characters of the three Van
Daans and Mr. Dussel, who share the attic with them. Anne's
difficult situation is made more complicated by her own
adolescence. Her maturing process, coupled with the misery of her
cramped quarters and her constant fear of discovery and capture, is
clearly seen in the pages of the diary. She tells of the conflicts she
has with her mother and sister, the support she receives from her
father, the love that develops between her and Peter Van Daan, the
constant bickering of the inhabitants of the attic, and the
deprivations that she must endure while in hiding. She also gives a
detailed accounting of what is occurring in the war, especially in
Holland, and reflects upon her past life.

The straightforward and simple diary is filled with conflicting
emotions, ranging from depression and despair to cheerfulness and
pleasure. Anne constantly tries to see the good side of things and to
have hope in spite of the misery and fear she faces on a daily basis.
She even tells of some humorous incidents that occur within the
annex. When the air raids and bombings come closer to the office
building, however, it is harder for her to be positive, but she tries
her best to rally her courage and find a zest for living. When she
falls in love with...