Summary

In Chapter 16, Dita and Margit discuss the relationship that is developing between Renée and Viktor, the SS guard. There is plenty of gossip going around the camp, and the other women look down upon Renée for her actions. They slut-shame her, and think she is doing this for special treatment, but Viktor has expressed his interest in getting engaged when the war is over. Renée wants to believe him but "knows it is her duty to hate him" (211).

As night falls in Auschwitz, Dita reads The Adventures of the Good Soldier Švejk, a book she enjoys because she feels a connection with the main character. However, her reading is interrupted by Mrs. Křižková, who berates Dita for reading this blasphemous novel. She claims this book is not for the enjoyment of a young girl like Dita. However...