Philip Kaifer Post 1

The first part of The Reader is an exploration into relationships and with family, friends, and lovers. While it is not completely independent from the other parts of the story, it is very unique in its style and its explicit subject matter. Hanna is a very confusing character in the first part of the novel, she seems irrational and even abusive to Michael. It is not until later in the novel that it becomes clear exactly why she acts the way she does and what her behavior represents. The title of the novel refers to Michael as “The reader.” Hanna seems to be using him and abusing her relationship with him and his emotional attachment to her.