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The Book Thief Allusions & Cultural References

When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.

Literary and Philosophical References

  • Mein Kampf (21.41, 21.44, 26.2, 26.3, 26.11, 26.34, 26.36, 28.16, 30.8, 35.164, 36.3,

Historical References

  • Adolf Hitler, also referred to as the Führer (throughout)
  • Jessie Owens (8.3, 8.21, 9.1, 9.3, 9.12, 9.16, 9.17, 9.22, 9.45, 9.47, 10.1, 27.64, 54.7, 54.66, 55.57, 84.56)
  • The 1936 Olympics (9.1)
  • Joseph Goebbels (15.34)
  • Joseph Stalin (45.15)

Musical References

  • Beethoven (43.73)
  • Mozart (43.73)
  • Strauss (43.73)
  • "Gloomy Sunday" (64.4)