The Moon is Down 3

Question three for the novel The Moon Is Down asks what universal themes are shown throughout the book. It also asks what the author understands about human nature. This book is written by John Steinbeck.

The Moon is Down by John Steinbeck addresses numerous universal themes. One of these themes is unity. There is unity showed throughout the entire book. The first sign of unity is the Nazi soldiers. They enter the town as one. They fight together to try to take over the town. The soldiers are brought together by Hitler. The second sign of unity is through the town. They come together to rebel against the Nazi’s.  They are brought together by the blue parachutes. The parachutes gave them the resources they did not have. It also gave them the courage to rebel and come together as one.

Strength is also a universal theme shown throughout the book. Both the townspeople and the soldiers had to show strength during the book.  The townspeople had to fight against the soldiers who were trying to take over their land and lives.  The soldiers were fighting for themselves as well as their leader. I think strength is a universal theme because it comes in many different types. Strength can be mental or physical. It can be helpful or hurtful.  

I think the author, John Steinbeck, understands a lot about human nature.  I think he wanted to show the nature of freedom. He shows this through the townspeople as they try to revolt. He also shows this through Alexander Morden. He was fighting for his freedom and his life was taken because of that.  This was a small turning point for the townspeople. They realized if they wanted a change in the town they would have to come together as one. I think it was his goal to show if people come together they can make a change.

John Steinbeck shows that we need love and compassion. The soldiers talk about their families and friends they miss. I think the soldiers lost passion from the lack of compassion. In the end I think Steinbeck shows a lot about human nature.

Steinbeck, John. The Moon Is Down. New York: Penguin Group, 1995. Print.