Genre
Self-Help/Psychology/Autobiography
Setting and Context
In the Auschwitz Concentration Camp During WWII, Poland
Narrator and Point of View
Through the point of view of the author, Viktor Frankl
Tone and Mood
Sad, Solemn, Violent, Chaotic, Hopeful, Uplifting, and Ruminative
Protagonist and Antagonist
There is no clear protagonist/antagonist structure in the book. However, Frankl could be considered the protagonist and the Nazis could be considered antagonists.
Major Conflict
Frankl and his fellow survivor's struggle to survive the Holocaust and Auschwitz while trying to maintain a positive attitude and keeping meaning and purpose in life
Climax
There is no climax in the novel.
Foreshadowing
This isn't a fictional narrative and thus does not utilize foreshadowing.
Understatement
It often feels as if Frankl understates the pain and absolute torture he experienced in the camps.
Allusions
History (WWII/the Jewish People), Psychology (mainly Logotherapy, a concept which Frankl invented), popular culture, the Bible, and religion.
Imagery
Throughout the book, Frankl frequently utilizes imagery to paint vibrant -- but horrible -- pictures of his life in Auschwitz.
Paradox
Frankl was in some of the worst conditions known to man in Auschwitz, yet endeavored to have a good attitude and continue to create meaning in his life.
Parallelism
Frankl's story and the story of many concentration camp inmates are paralleled often in the book
Metonymy and Synecdoche
Metonymy: Auschwitz and "The Concentration Camp"
Personification
N/A
