Nachts Schlafen Die Ratten Doch Text

"Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" (At night, the rats do sleep) is a short story written by German author Wolfgang Borchert in 1947, shortly after the end of World War II. It's a poignant and impactful piece of literature frequently studied in German schools and often used to introduce young readers to the themes of war, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the story's plot, characters, themes, historical context, and lasting significance.

Plot Summary

The story unfolds in a post-war German city, amidst the rubble and ruins left by bombings. The central character is a young boy named Jürgen. He is guarding a pile of bricks, sitting silently amongst the debris. An elderly man, initially unidentified, approaches Jürgen. He notices the boy's vigil and becomes curious about what he's protecting.

The old man attempts to engage Jürgen in conversation, offering him a cigarette. Jürgen refuses the cigarette, stating that he doesn't smoke. The old man persists, trying to understand why the boy is sitting alone amongst the ruins so late in the day.

Eventually, Jürgen reluctantly reveals that he's guarding the pile of bricks. He believes his younger brother is buried beneath them, killed during the bombings. He's keeping the rats away from his brother's body. He heard from others that rats are particularly active at night, and he is fearful of what they might do.

The old man, deeply moved by Jürgen's devotion and innocent understanding of death, tries to gently explain that his brother is likely no longer there, that nature has taken its course. He uses the phrase, which gives the story its title, "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" – "At night, the rats do sleep." He suggests that the rats wouldn't be active around the rubble, trying to comfort the boy with a false reassurance.

Jürgen is skeptical. He's heard different accounts. The old man then shifts his approach, suggesting that even if the rats were active, they wouldn't bother his brother anymore because he's at peace. This indirect acknowledgement of the boy's loss is more effective.

The story concludes with the old man and Jürgen walking away from the rubble together. The implication is that the old man has provided Jürgen with some comfort and a degree of acceptance, allowing him to begin to process his grief and leave the symbolic grave site.

Characters

Jürgen: The young boy, traumatized by the war and the loss of his brother. He represents the innocence and vulnerability of children in the face of immense suffering. His dedication to guarding the rubble highlights his deep love and grief.
The Old Man: An unnamed elderly man who serves as a compassionate figure. He embodies the older generation's responsibility to help the younger generation cope with the trauma of war. He offers comfort and guidance to Jürgen, representing hope and the possibility of healing.

Themes

Several key themes are interwoven within the short story:

Loss and Grief: The story poignantly portrays the profound loss and grief experienced by children during and after the war. Jürgen's dedication to guarding the rubble is a powerful symbol of his inability to accept his brother's death.
The Impact of War on Children: Borchert effectively depicts the devastating psychological effects of war on children. Jürgen's trauma manifests in his silent vigil and his fear of the rats. The story underscores the innocence lost and the long-lasting scars left by conflict.
Compassion and Empathy: The old man's interaction with Jürgen highlights the importance of compassion and empathy in helping those who are suffering. His gentle approach and willingness to listen provide Jürgen with a sense of comfort and understanding.
Hope and Resilience: Despite the bleak setting and the themes of loss and grief, the story also offers a glimmer of hope. The old man's presence and his ability to connect with Jürgen suggest the possibility of healing and resilience in the face of adversity. The final image of them walking away together implies a step towards recovery.
The Power of Communication: The story illustrates how communication, even in simple forms, can bridge the gap between generations and provide solace. The old man's patient questioning and empathetic responses are crucial in helping Jürgen begin to process his trauma.

Historical Context

Understanding the historical context is crucial to appreciating the full impact of "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch." The story was written in 1947, just two years after the end of World War II. Germany was in ruins, both physically and emotionally. The population was grappling with immense loss, widespread destruction, and the guilt and shame associated with the Nazi regime.

Borchert himself was deeply affected by the war. He had been drafted into the German army and was imprisoned for anti-war sentiments. His experiences shaped his writing, which often focused on the themes of war, suffering, and the human condition in the aftermath of conflict. "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" reflects the pervasive atmosphere of despair and the urgent need for healing and reconciliation in post-war Germany. The rubble serves as a constant reminder of the destruction and loss that permeated daily life.

Literary Significance and Style

Borchert's writing style is characterized by its simplicity and directness. He uses short sentences and plain language to convey powerful emotions. This minimalist approach allows the story's themes to resonate deeply with readers. He avoids sentimentality and melodrama, focusing instead on the raw and authentic portrayal of human suffering.

The story's symbolism is also significant. The rubble represents the physical and emotional destruction of the war. The rats symbolize fear, decay, and the ever-present threat of death. The old man represents hope, compassion, and the possibility of healing. The title itself, while seemingly reassuring, also carries a layer of irony, highlighting the pervasive fear and uncertainty that gripped post-war Germany.

Why is it important to read this text?

Reading "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" offers several important benefits:

Understanding German History and Culture: The story provides valuable insight into the social and psychological impact of World War II on German society. It helps readers understand the challenges faced by the post-war generation and the long process of healing and reconciliation.
Developing Empathy and Compassion: The story fosters empathy and compassion for those who have experienced trauma and loss. It encourages readers to consider the perspectives of others and to appreciate the importance of human connection.
Promoting Critical Thinking: The story's themes and symbolism invite critical thinking and discussion. Readers are encouraged to analyze the characters' motivations, the historical context, and the author's message.
Appreciating Literary Art: The story is a masterful example of short story writing. Borchert's concise and impactful style demonstrates the power of language to convey complex emotions and ideas.
Learning German: For those learning German, the story is a relatively short and accessible text that can help improve reading comprehension and vocabulary. Its simple language and clear narrative structure make it a suitable choice for language learners.

Interpretations and Analysis

The story has been interpreted in various ways. Some critics emphasize the importance of the old man as a symbol of hope and reconciliation. Others focus on the psychological impact of war on Jürgen, highlighting the lasting trauma and the challenges of recovery. Still others emphasize the story's universal themes of loss, grief, and the search for meaning in the face of adversity.

One common interpretation focuses on the cycle of violence and the need to break it. The war created a generation of traumatized individuals, and the story suggests that healing requires compassion, understanding, and a willingness to confront the past.

Another interpretation highlights the fragility of innocence. Jürgen's naiveté and his innocent belief that he can protect his brother's body from the rats underscore the devastating impact of war on children. The story suggests that war robs children of their innocence and forces them to confront the harsh realities of death and suffering.

Ultimately, "Nachts schlafen die Ratten doch" is a complex and multifaceted story that continues to resonate with readers today. Its enduring appeal lies in its powerful portrayal of human suffering, its exploration of universal themes, and its message of hope and resilience. It is a testament to the enduring power of literature to shed light on the human condition and to promote understanding and compassion.