Where Does Number The Stars Take Place? Exploring The Setting of Lois Lowry's Novel

When we dive into the pages of "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry, we find ourselves transported to a very specific time and place: Copenhagen, Denmark during World War II. The novel isn't just set in any ordinary setting; it unfolds in a city marked by fear, bravery, and the fight for freedom. As readers, we get an intimate look at this historical backdrop through the eyes of young Annemarie Johansen and her family as they navigate life under Nazi occupation.

A Brief Overview of Copenhagen During WWII

Copenhagen was a vibrant city before the war, known for its beautiful canals, colorful buildings, and rich cultural heritage. However, when the Nazis invaded Denmark in April 1940, everything changed. The peaceful atmosphere was replaced with tension and anxiety as residents faced the daily realities of living under occupation. The Danish government initially adopted a policy of cooperation with the Nazis to protect their citizens; however, as time passed and more brutal measures were implemented against Jews and resistance members alike, this cooperation became increasingly difficult to uphold.

In "Number the Stars," Lowry skillfully captures this uneasy environment. We see how everyday life is dramatically altered as Annemarie and her friends grapple with fear while trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy amidst chaos. The way she describes Copenhagen's streets—the familiar places that are now fraught with danger—makes us acutely aware of how war can turn even our most cherished locations into places of peril.

The Significance of Setting in Character Development

The setting is not merely a backdrop but serves as an essential component for character development throughout "Number the Stars." Annemarie Johansen's growth is deeply intertwined with her surroundings. Initially introduced as a carefree young girl who loves running through the streets with her best friend Kirsti or enjoying family dinners at home, Annemarie quickly evolves into someone much braver when faced with harsh realities.

As she navigates through occupied Copenhagen—where soldiers patrol the streets and neighbors are wary—it becomes evident how critical her environment is to shaping her actions. For instance, when she helps hide her Jewish friend Ellen Rosen from Nazi soldiers during a raid on their apartment building, Annemarie showcases incredible courage that reflects both her character arc and changes brought upon by their oppressive circumstances.

The Role of Historical Context

It's important to understand that "Number the Stars" doesn’t merely take place in Copenhagen; it encapsulates a moment in history where ordinary people were thrust into extraordinary situations. Through engaging storytelling combined with rich historical context, Lowry allows us to glimpse into what life was like for Danes during Nazi occupation. From rationing food supplies to hiding Jewish friends from danger—the choices made by characters reflect real struggles faced by many during this tumultuous period.

This historical backdrop also serves an educational purpose for readers unfamiliar with World War II or Holocaust history. By experiencing events alongside relatable characters like Annemarie or Ellen—as opposed to reading dry facts—young readers can grasp complex themes about friendship amidst adversity much more effectively than through traditional methods alone.

Copenhagen’s Symbolism in Resistance Efforts

Copenhagen itself transforms from simply being a location on a map into something symbolic throughout “Number The Stars.” It stands not just as an oppressed city but also one filled with individuals who chose resistance over submission despite enormous risks involved—a testament reminding us how critical human resilience is even under dire conditions.

By weaving together personal narratives within larger collective experiences occurring throughout cities such as Copenhagen—from secret meetings among resistors attempting sabotage missions against German forces—to acts like smuggling Jewish families across borders; Lowry illuminates every aspect involving bravery within communities working together towards liberation! Each street corner seems imbued with stories begging us not only appreciate their struggles but also honor those lost along way because they fought back against tyranny!

The Enduring Legacy of Setting

The significance behind where “Number The Stars” takes place extends far beyond mere geographic description—it resonates emotionally long after readers have turned last page! As we walk alongside young girls navigating complexities associated growing up amidst wartime turmoil; it's impossible not acknowledge ways places influence lives shaped around them—how courage arises from desperation coupled hope shared amongst neighbors bound together sharing hardships endured silently behind closed doors.

Through “Number The Stars,” Lois Lowry reminds us that settings can hold immense power—not just historically speaking—but also personally: influencing our perspectives forming lasting bonds bridging generations past present future alike forever changing landscape whom we've come understand identify closely creating stronger sense belonging ties uniting humanity itself!

Conclusion: A Powerful Reminder Through Place

The setting in "Number the Stars" does more than simply provide context; it actively shapes characters' lives while reinforcing themes around friendship resilience hope found even darkest times so remember next time you read book yourself take pause reflect upon significance locations chosen authors whether fictional real ignite sparks inspiration provoke thoughts action lead positive change world needs desperately now again!

• Lowry, Lois. Number the Stars. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company, 1989.
• Tuchman Barbara W., *The Guns of August*. New York: Macmillan Publishing Co., Inc., 1962.
• Baker C.D., *Denmark During World War II*. Oxford University Press: New York & London (1995).
• Murray Christopher J.L., *War History Of Denmark*. Cambridge University Press (2003).