Maus: A Survivor's Tale Race Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Page Number). Page numbers refer to The Complete Maus.

Quote #1

“Well, Jew, don’t worry. We’ll find work for you!” (I.3.53)

The Nazi soldier draws on the racial stereotype of Jews as wealthy financiers who can’t work with their hands.

Quote #2

 “All our friends went through the camps. Nobody is like him!” (I.6.133)

Mala’s statement is an important reminder that Vladek’s experience doesn’t represent the experience of all Jews. It reminds us that there are no simple explanations for Vladek’s behavior. Spiegelman includes other Jewish survivors in the book to make this point.

Quote #3

“In some ways he’s just like the racist caricature of the miserly old Jew.” (I.6.133)

Art expresses his concern that he is turning his father into a stereotype. By placing this comment within the text, he is alerting the reader to avoid racial stereotypes themselves.