Introduction John Boyne's novel, "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas," is a touching narrative that explores the unlikely friendship between two eight-year-olds years, Bruno and Shmuel, in the harrowing context of the Second World War. While Bruno is the son of a high-ranking Nazi officer, Shmuel is a Jewish boy imprisoned in a concentration camp. Despite contrasting circumstances, both characters display remarkable similarities that transcend their starkly different environments. This essay aims to analyze the common characteristics of Bruno and Shmuel, highlighting how their innocence, curiosity and sense of isolation unite them in a bond that challenges the barriers created by prejudice and hatred. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original EssayBody ParagraphOne of the most striking similarities between Bruno and Shmuel is their innocence. Both boys are unaware of the true nature of their surroundings and the grim reality of the Holocaust. Bruno's lack of understanding of his father's role and the purpose of the camp is evident when he mistakenly refers to it as "Outside" instead of Auschwitz. Likewise, Shmuel, despite living in the camp, does not fully understand the extent of the atrocities committed. Their innocence allows them to form a genuine friendship, untainted by the prejudice and hatred that pervades their world. This childlike innocence is a testament to the purity of their bond and serves as a stark contrast to the cruelty and inhumanity of the adults around them. Another common characteristic between Bruno and Shmuel is their shared curiosity. Both boys show a natural curiosity that pushes them to explore each other's worlds. Bruno's curiosity leads him to defy his parents' orders and venture towards the camp fence, where he meets Shmuel. Likewise, Shmuel's curiosity about Bruno's life off the pitch and the world beyond the fence spurs their conversations and deepens their friendship. This mutual curiosity not only unites them, but also highlights their desire to understand and make sense of the world around them, despite overwhelming confusion and fear. The sense of isolation experienced by both boys is another significant similarity. Bruno feels isolated after being uprooted from his home in Berlin and moved to a desolate house near the concentration camp. He longs for his old friends and familiar comforts of his former life. Shmuel, however, experiences deeper isolation within the camp, separated from his family and subjected to the dehumanizing conditions of captivity. This shared sense of loneliness and longing for companionship brings the kids together, providing them with a sense of comfort and connection in an otherwise bleak environment. Furthermore, Bruno and Shmuel both display remarkable resilience and strength of character. Despite the difficulties they face, both boys maintain a sense of hope and determination. Bruno's unwavering determination to explore and understand his new environment, combined with Shmuel's quiet strength in enduring the hardships of the camp, exemplify their resilience. Their friendship becomes a source of strength for both of them, allowing them to find moments of happiness and normality in an otherwise oppressive and terrifying situation. Conclusion Keep in mind: this is just one example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom EssayIn In conclusion, although Bruno and Shmuel come from very different backgrounds and circumstances, their similarities are deep and significant. There..