Mirian Katin- We are our own. Characterization

Esther, who is Miriam's mother, underwent a significant change in character as the story progressed. In this particular scene it is evident that Esther realizes that she must alter her character if she is to survive the challenges that await her. Esther and Miriam were forced to endure many hardships on their journey to find safety from the war. Esther went to extraordinary lengths to ensure the safety of Miriam and herself, it is during these scenes that we are able to truly appreciate the resilient character of Esther.

(Katin, 2006)

Throughout  the memoir, we are provided with snippets of Miriam's life as an adult. These scenes are shown in color to resemble present day. Miriam's pessimistic character is revealed to the reader in these scenes. Also, Esther's religious beliefs are suggested to be non-existent in these specific scenes. As the story unfolds the reader learns that David, Esther's father, has lost his faith in God due to his experiences during the war. Miriam's traumatic experiences coupled with the influence of her father may have been the source of Miriam's character as an adult. 

(Katin, 2006)                                                                                                            (Katin, 2006)