Vienna
There is a profound irony in Seethaler's description of pre-War Vienna, Austria, which is beautiful and culturally rich, and the harsh and brutal Vienna that emerges as a result of the Nazi regime. In the span of only several months, the city unexpectedly changes drastically.
Jewish people
Because of their exposure to history, readers are aware of the danger and death that Jewish people will face during the Holocaust. However, none of the characters in the novel are aware of the danger they face because of blatantly racist, genocidal policies. This heightens the tension in the book: readers know that if the novel's characters don't escape Vienna, they will ultimately be sent to their deaths, something the characters themselves don't know.
Franz's journey
Ironically, Franz's journey to Vienna, which was meant to be a positive and exciting new chapter in his life, ultimately resulted in his death.
The shop
The tobacconist shop, which serves as a constant and safe, and normal place in Franz's life despite the chaos, turns into a site of conflict or danger due to the political circumstances provoked by the Nazis. In fact, the shop gets vandalized several times by unsavory characters in Vienna--including people who Franz thought were his friend. This is ironic because a place of perceived safety and stability becomes a site of danger and uncertainty for Franz.
Freud
Sigmund Freud, who is well-known for his wisdom and sage advice, is incapable of providing answers to Franz and others around him in times of need. In some situations, Franz, who is much younger, less experienced, and thus less wise, unexpectedly has the answers that Freud doesn't have.
