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Victor's compassion vs. the Hartliebs' cold heartedness
  • michellemjsnew August 2011
    "The Hartliebs had no time for the snow. Outside their window, the San Giorgio maggiore seemed to be floating on the lagoon as if it had just surfaced there. The view was so beautiful that Victor felt his heart ache. Esther and her husband, however, stood side by side with their backs to the window and only had eyes for him." (page 195)

    I chose this passage because it shows how Victor is so kind and loving and how the Hartliebs are so uncaring and cold. For example, Victor's heart "aches" from the beauty of the scenery while the Hartliebs have their backs turned to the window and only want the information and nothing but the information. This is an important quote because it shows us that Victor is doing the right thing when he lies to the Hartliebs and tells them that the children are no longer in Venice. Michelle N.
  • natalieb August 2011
    I agree Michelle, The Hartliebs are very cold-hearted. They don't like the feel of Venice, the Look of Venice, or even being in Venice. Unlike Victor, who loves Venice and the scenery there and cares about people. Victor is very appreciative of what is around him. Victor has a very kind way of dealing with Hartliebs coldness. He just remained nice himself. I think that Victor's kindness may have rubbed off a little on Mrs. Hartlieb because she took Barbarossa back home with her. Maybe some cold people can become warm if they find the love hiding deep down inside.

    Natalie B.
  • EmmaBaker August 2011
    I agree with Natalie. I think Victor's kindness rubs off on Mrs. Hartlieb. However, I think that Barbarossa had to sweet-talk her into adopting him. Mrs. Hartlieb might not have loved the real Barbarossa. Maybe Victor's kindness also rubs off on the children when they take care of Lando and Paula, his turtles, even though they are holding him hostage.
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