What was the Hitler Youth? Why did Alfons become a member?

Contrast Alfons's hometown and family with his devotion to National Socialism.

To what extent is Alfons culpable for his participation in the Hitler Youth? Why or why not?

What was the happiest time of Alfons's life? Why?

Give three examples of how Alfons is hardened to brutality as the book progresses.

Who were Alfons's closest friends? What does Alfons's human connection with them have to do with Nazism? Is it because of such connections that Nazism thrived or despite them?

Why could Alfons not accept the reality of the Holocaust?

What is the guilt that Alfons's generation's must bear their whole lives?

Do you think Alfons's portrayal of the German people as Hitler's victims is fair?