TL;DR
Set against the backdrop of World War II, ‘The Chosen’ delves into the lives of two Jewish boys from different sects in Brooklyn: Reuven Malter, a Modern Orthodox Jew, and Danny Saunders, a Hasidic Jew. Their unlikely friendship, forged through a competitive baseball game, becomes a transformative journey of self-discovery, grappling with faith, family, and the complexities of their identities.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Chaim Potok (1929-2002) was an American author, rabbi, and painter. Drawing upon his own Orthodox Jewish upbringing, Potok’s works often explored themes of faith, identity, and the tension between tradition and modernity. His writing is characterized by its deep psychological insight and its ability to capture the nuances of Jewish culture. ‘The Chosen’, his debut novel, became an instant classic and established him as a prominent voice in American literature.
Key Takeaways
Friendship and Cultural Clash
The central theme revolves around the unlikely friendship between Reuven and Danny, who come from vastly different backgrounds within the Jewish community. Their bond challenges their preconceived notions and exposes them to new perspectives on faith and tradition.
Father-Son Relationships
The novel explores the complex relationships between fathers and sons. Reuven shares a close bond with his father, a Zionist scholar, while Danny struggles under the weight of his father’s expectations as the heir to their Hasidic dynasty.
Faith and Doubt
Both Reuven and Danny grapple with questions of faith and doubt as they navigate the challenges of adolescence and the changing world around them. The novel explores the different ways in which individuals reconcile their religious beliefs with personal growth and intellectual curiosity.
Tradition and Modernity
The novel highlights the tension between traditional Jewish values and the pressures of modern society. Reuven’s family embraces modernity, while Danny’s community adheres to strict religious customs. The boys’ friendship becomes a bridge between these two worlds.
The Holocaust and Its Aftermath
The shadow of the Holocaust looms large over the story, shaping the characters’ perspectives on faith, suffering, and the future of the Jewish people.
Coming-of-Age
The novel is a poignant coming-of-age story that traces the boys’ journey from adolescence to adulthood as they confront personal challenges, make difficult choices, and ultimately forge their own paths in life.
Psychology and Identity
Potok’s background in psychology is evident in his nuanced portrayal of the characters’ inner lives and the psychological impact of their upbringing and experiences.
The Power of Empathy
Through their friendship, Reuven and Danny learn the importance of empathy and understanding, bridging the divide between their different worlds and finding common ground despite their differences.
FAQ about The Chosen
Is ‘The Chosen’ based on a true story?
While not directly autobiographical, ‘The Chosen’ draws inspiration from Chaim Potok’s own experiences growing up in an Orthodox Jewish community in New York City.
What are the main themes of the book?
The main themes include friendship, faith, family, tradition vs. modernity, identity, and the impact of the Holocaust.
Is ‘The Chosen’ suitable for young adults?
Yes, the book is often read and studied by young adults as it explores themes relevant to adolescence and coming-of-age.
Has ‘The Chosen’ been adapted into a film or play?
Yes, the novel has been adapted into both a film (1981) and a stage play.
The Chosen Quotes
- “He was a boy, and I was a boy, and we were two lonely boys in a strange place.”
- “You see, Danny, it doesn’t matter what you believe or what you don’t believe. It matters what you do.”
- “There is no such thing as an uninteresting life. It is impossible. Inside each of us, there is a drama, a comedy, and a tragedy.”