Pre-AP English II
Questions for from The Sunflower
By Simon Wiesenthal
1. Why does Wiesenthal have a “feeling of sympathy”?
2. Why does Wiesenthal say, “I am bringing you greetings from your son”? What does this tell you
about him?
3. On page 151-152, describe Karl’s mother. What characteristics do you observe?
4. Why does the Father react to Karl as he does? Who is really angry with?
5. What is a “frightful accumulation of mistrust”?
6. Do you agree with Wiesenthal that “it is the duty of Germans to find out who was guilty”? Don’t the
people know who was guilty? To whom is he referring?
7. Why does the Father’s “protection” hurt him?
8. Was Wiesenthal correct to not tell the mother of Karl’s actions? Explain.
9. On page 156, how does Wiesenthal’s tone change?
10. Is it easier for you to forget or forgive? Explain.
11. Thoroughly answer Wiesenthal’s last question to the reader.