Schindler’s Ark: The Extraordinary Tale of Oskar Schindler’s Heroism During the Holocaust
This powerful and deeply moving book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human capacity for both great evil and extraordinary good
In the annals of history, there are few stories as compelling and inspirational as that of Oskar Schindler, the German industrialist who saved the lives of over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust. Thomas Keneally’s Booker Prize-winning novel, “Schindler’s Ark” (also published as “Schindler’s List”), brings this remarkable tale to life, offering a powerful and deeply moving account of one man’s courage and humanity in the face of unimaginable evil.
Schindler's Ark
By Thomas Keneally
Schindler’s Ark is based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust. The novel is a work of historical fiction, meaning that while it is based on real events and people, some fictional elements and dialogue have been added by the author to fill in gaps where exact details were unknown.
Schindler’s Ark was originally published under that title in Australia and the United Kingdom. However, when the book was released in the United States, it was renamed Schindler’s List. The name change was likely made to make the book’s subject matter clearer to American audiences. After the release of Steven Spielberg’s acclaimed 1993 film adaptation, which used the title Schindler’s List, the book was subsequently republished under that title in Commonwealth countries as well.
The Power of a Single Individual
At the heart of “Schindler’s Ark” is the idea that one person can make a difference, even in the darkest of times. Oskar Schindler, a member of the Nazi Party and a flawed hero, risked his life and fortune to save Jewish workers from deportation to concentration camps. Through his actions, Schindler demonstrates that even in the midst of unspeakable horror, there is still room for hope and the possibility of redemption.
A Vivid Portrait of the Holocaust
Keneally’s novel paints a vivid and harrowing picture of life in Nazi-occupied Poland, from the ghettos of Kraków to the forced labor camp at Płaszów. Through the eyes of Schindler and the Jewish workers he saved, readers are confronted with the brutal realities of the Holocaust, as well as the incredible resilience and courage of those who survived.
“Whoever saves one life saves the world entire”
The Talmud
While Schindler’s Ark is a work of historical fiction, it is based on extensive research and interviews conducted by the author, Thomas Keneally. Keneally drew upon the accounts of Holocaust survivors, including Poldek Pfefferberg, one of the Schindlerjuden (Schindler’s Jews), to create a detailed and largely accurate portrayal of the events surrounding Oskar Schindler’s actions during World War II. However, as with any work of historical fiction, some elements of the story may have been fictionalized or dramatized for narrative purposes.
The Importance of Memory
“Schindler’s Ark” is not only a gripping and emotionally charged story but also an important work of historical memory. By bringing the story of Oskar Schindler to a wider audience, Keneally ensures that the horrors of the Holocaust are never forgotten and that the lessons of this dark chapter in human history continue to resonate with new generations.
A Story That Continues to Inspire
More than three decades after its publication, “Schindler’s Ark” remains a deeply inspiring and relevant work of literature. Its message of hope, courage, and the power of individual action continues to resonate with readers around the world, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human capacity for both great evil and extraordinary good.
In “Schindler’s Ark,” Thomas Keneally has given us a masterful and unforgettable account of one of the most remarkable stories to emerge from the Holocaust. By turns harrowing and inspiring, this novel is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit and a reminder of the importance of standing up against injustice and oppression. If you have not yet had the privilege of reading this extraordinary book, there has never been a better time to add it to your collection.
