Hans Hubermann

Hans Hubermann

Samuel Lanciani

Reading and education started Hans' and Liesel's relationship. He cherished the time they got to spend in the basement writing words on the walls with his old paint. It created a strong bond and demonstrated to the readers that through all the tragedies during WWII, the smallest things make the largest difference.

Hans's passion is painting. He is the best painter in Munich, everyone knows it.

When Liesel first moved in she would have terrible nightmares about her brother and pee her bed. Hans without remark, would get up, change the sheets, and sit by her until she was felt safe and fell asleep. This was the start of their relationship. Liesel was distraught, scared, and nervous, but Hans being by her side helped ease Liesels distress.

The accordion is a symbol. It represents Hans's connection to Erik Vandenberg and the promise Hans made to him. This symbol as well represents trouble. As Max was a dangerous burden on the family, they learned to love him anyway. The accordion is family, as Max was.

The large heart represents Hans's, open heart. He is not a man of hatred, he goes against the Nazi Party their anti-semitic beliefs. Hans is caring, and kind, he feeds Max what he can. He gives bread to starving Jews on their long walk to a concentration camp by second nature, not even taking time to consider the consequences.

Although Hans was not Liesels biological father, he was her real father. There is not much known about Liesel's biological father, but she knows Hans better than anyone. Hans was always there for Liesel, giving her all he had and then some. Being the father of Liesel was one of Hans's proudest accomplishments.

Hans is relatively a peaceful person. He never resorts to violence. His loving nature contrasts with the Nazi Party which leads him into trouble. We see this as Hans boards Max in his home, as well as when he gives the jews marching bread.

This plane represents not only the American plane that bombed Himmel Street but as well represents how World War II impacted many European citizens. Thousands of innocent civilians were killed due to the war effort. Many of the deaths were as tragic as Hans', many much worse, some did not die instantly. World War II was the demise of Hans and many others throughout Europe.