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What is the theme of The Reader by Bernhard Schlink?

One of the most dominant themes in Schlink's story is the approach human beings take towards accepting responsibility.


Set amidst the backdrop of post-Holocaust Germany, a major theme seen in the actions of Hanna and Michael is how they approach responsibility for their actions. Michael is not able to affirm full responsibility for his relationship with Hanna.  He cannot vouch support for her in court, when he knows that his version of the truth is significant to her defense.  As he tries to sort out his feelings towards her, his inability to accept full emotional responsibility is displayed. Even though he makes books on tape for her, he is unable to fully embrace his obligation to her. At the end of the novel, Michael makes the donation of money in Hanna's name, but struggles in acknowledging the emotional connection between them.


In much the same way, Hanna struggles to take responsibility for her role in the Holocaust.  Even though she accepts blame in order to conceal her illiteracy in court, she does not fully acknowledge the role she played in the perpetuation of human suffering. Her suicide reveals her grasp of the full implications of her actions. After reading works by authors of the Holocaust, Hanna understands that her negation is the only way to accept blame for what she has done. Michael's and Hanna's emotional struggles prove that the way in which human beings attempt to take responsibility for their actions is a significant theme in The Reader.

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