(a) Reread the stage directions at the beginning of Scene 4 in Act I of The Diary of Anne Frank. What can you most reasonably infer that Mr. Van Daan is doing when he goes downstairs in the middle of the night?

Answer 1

In Scene 4 of Act I of The Diary of Anne Frank, the stage directions indicate that Mr. Van Daan goes downstairs in the middle of the night. From this, we can reasonably infer that he is likely going to the kitchen to eat food or get something to eat, as earlier tensions about food scarcity and rationing are prominent in the play. This act could suggest that he is feeling anxious or desperate about their living conditions and the limited availability of food, highlighting the stress and strain that the characters are experiencing while in hiding. Additionally, this moment emphasizes the theme of survival and the impact of the war on their everyday lives.