Dialogue and Character DIRECTIONS: Complete the following activity as either a written response 5. Describe the character of Anne Frank as she is presented in Act I of The Diary of Anne Frank. In your essay, analyze how particular lines of dialogue or incidents from Act I reveal aspects of Anne’s character. Use these guidelines in your writing or discussion. ● Make a general statement about Anne Frank’s character. ● Support your general statement with examples of Anne’s words and behavior. Explain what each example reveals about her personality and attitudes. ● Cite evidence from the text to support each point you make. ● Consider both positive and negative aspects of Anne’s character, especially as shown in her behavior toward others. TIP FOR WRITTEN RESPONSE Present your ideas in a pattern that makes sense to your readers. For example, use order of importance or chronological order to organize your ideas. TIP FOR DISCUSSION Connect your ideas to the ideas of other discussion participants.

Answer 1

The Character of Anne Frank in Act I of The Diary of Anne Frank

In Act I of The Diary of Anne Frank, Anne Frank is portrayed as a spirited, intelligent, and at times impulsive young girl who is navigating the complexities of adolescence while living in hiding during a tumultuous period of history. Through her dialogue and interactions, we see a character that is both optimistic and frustrated, reflecting the dichotomy of hope and fear that defines her situation.

One of the most striking aspects of Anne's character is her resilience and determination to maintain her youthful spirit despite the oppressive circumstances she faces. A powerful example of this is when Anne expresses her desire to write and communicate her thoughts freely. She states, "I want to be myself... I want to be straight, honest, and not have to hide.” This quote reveals Anne's intrinsic longing for authenticity and individuality. It emphasizes her aspiration to rise above the fear surrounding her while asserting her identity as a budding writer. This motivation highlights not only her literary ambition but also her refusal to let the circumstances define her.

However, Anne’s character is not without flaws. Her youthful impulsiveness sometimes leads to tension with others, particularly with her mother and the occupants of the annex. For instance, when she argues with her mother, saying, “You don’t understand me!” we can see Anne's frustration at her perceived isolation and lack of understanding from the adults around her. This outburst showcases her struggle to communicate her feelings and the emotional turmoil she endures while adapting to her confined life. It underscores her vulnerability and the innate desire for connection, which is a universal aspect of adolescence.

Moreover, Anne’s relationships with her peers and adults provide insight into her personality. Her interaction with Peter, for instance, reveals her complex nature; when she teases him, it demonstrates her youthful flirtation and her ability to find moments of levity in a dire situation. She says, “You look like a rabbit,” showing her playful side and hinting at her feelings for him. This playful banter presents her as a typical teenager seeking companionship and normalcy amidst chaos, revealing her longing for interpersonal connections in a time of isolation.

At the same time, Anne’s sharp wit often surfaces as a coping mechanism. Her humorous observations about life in hiding speak to her resilience: “I keep my ideals, because in spite of everything, I still believe that people are really good at heart.” This line embodies her optimism, contrasting vividly with the grim reality around her. It suggests that Anne possesses a profound sense of hope, even when it seems misplaced, highlighting her ability to see the good in humanity.

In conclusion, Act I of The Diary of Anne Frank presents Anne as a multifaceted character—brilliant and hopeful yet grappling with the complexity of her emotions in an impossible situation. Her aspirations and interactions not only shed light on her character but also evoke empathy from the audience. Through her struggles and resilience, Anne embodies the spirit of youth fighting against oppression, making her one of the most relatable and heart-wrenching figures in literature. The dialogue and incidents from Act I lay a foundation for understanding her complexity as a young woman caught in a tragic historical moment.