The Reader: Illiteracy Effects on One's Thought Processes

Illiteracy Affects on Ones Thought Processes

Themes of betrayal, guilt and love are intertwined in Bernhard Schlink’s, The Reader, however, looking at a more in depth analysis of the text, one could argue if Hanna is able to think clearly and effectively given her circumstances. Hanna Schmitz, a forty-year-old conductor from Germany, begins a romantic relationship with fifteen-year-old Michael, and during their relationship he constantly read to her. All of her life Hanna struggled with the fact that she could not read and write, and even when she had an alibi during a trial, she would not admit to the court that she was illiterate. Literacy often is discussed in contrast to opposite conditions, illiteracy and literate. There is no consensus for a single definition of literacy. At the root of most definitions are the abilities to read and write. Throughout the novel, Hanna is faced with situations in which being illiterate hinders her. However, regardless of her disability this should not conclude that Hanna is unable to think intelligibly. Ones thought process and ability to read and write should be regarded separately.

Throughout the novel, Hanna is faced with situations in which being illiterate restricts her. However, regardless of her disability this should not conclude that Hanna is unable to think intelligibly. Hanna wishes to expand her knowledge by having Michael read short stories, poems and novels to her during their visits. One common misconception of illiterates is their inability to think critically and hypothetically. Although one who is illiterate is unable to read and write, this does not inhibit their ability to use their minds to their fullest potential. In fact, Hanna thoroughly enjoyed listening to Michael read classic literature novels to her. When Michael would visit Hanna in the afternoons, their routine would be “reading to her, showering with her, and lying next to her for awhile afterwards” (Schlink 43). Hanna was thoroughly...