Analyzing the Functions of Dialogue in Anne Frank

What do the following lines tell you about Mr. Frank? Mr. Frank:"It’ll be hard, I know. But always remember this, Anneke. There are no walls, there are no bolts, no locks that anyone can put on your mind. "

• He doesn’t really like to read fiction

• He would rather read than do anything else.

• He believes that books can help people escape, at least mentally, from unpleasant situations.

• He is glad they are in hiding because it means he will have the chance to give Anne a better education.

What is the function of this piece of dialogue? "Anne, dear, I think you shouldn't play like that with Peter. It's not dignified."

• It provokes a decision on Anne's part to ignore Peter.

• It propels the plot by increasing the conflict between Anne and her mother.

• It reveals that Mrs. Frank is foolish and often does not think before she speaks.

• It causes Anne to be more flirtatious with Peter.

What is the most accurate inference to draw about Anne’s personality from the details in this speech?

"The best part about this room….you can look down and see a bit of the street and the canal. There’s a houseboat…you can see the end of it…a bargeman lives there with his family…They have a baby and he’s just beginning to walk and I’m so afraid he’ll fall into the canal. I watch him…"

• She is nosy because she keeps an eye on the baby even though she does not know the bargeman and his wife.

• She is foolish because she has established communications with outsiders in spite of being warned of the danger.

• She is resourceful because she finds outside interests that take her mind off having to live in fear of Nazis

What impact does this dialogue have on our understanding of Mrs. Frank: “ You must not answer back. They are our guests. We must always show the greatest courtesy to them. We’re all living under terrible tension…. That’s why we must control ourselves...You don’t hear Margot getting into arguments with them, do you? Watch Margot…”

• Mrs. Frank feels that Margot is more mature and Anne should act like Margot.

• We learn that Mrs. Frank is a very caring and wise parent.

• Mrs. Frank feels that they must be careful with the Van Daans because they are very touchy.

• Mrs. Frank resents having the Van Daans living with them.

Which line of dialogue by Margot best reveals a positive character trait?

• "Oh, come on Anne, don't be so......."

• "There may be someone here, waiting. … It may be a trap!"

• I'll get my books. Miep's here.

• "Mr. Kraler says things are improving"

Which piece of dialogue suggests that Mr. Frank is well respected? Check all that apply.

• "I'm sorry there is still so much confusion."

• "You don't know how your husband helped me when I came to this country."

• "I think there's nothing the matter with our Anne that a ride on her bike... wouldn't cure."

• "I never thought I'd live to see the day when a man like Mr. Frank would have to go into hiding."

Which piece of dialogue reveals that Anne has a very outgoing personality ? Check all that apply.

• "Oh, I had a date with Jopie to go and play ping-pong at her house."

• "Peter, come dance with me."

• " I only want some fun..someone to laugh and clown with.:

• "You are the most intolerable, insufferable boy I've ever met."

Which example of dialogue best propels the plot by creating tension early on in the play?

• "What did he mean about the noise?"

• "And here is your room. But I warn you, Peter, you can't grown any more."

• "Never. I am sorry Anne. It isn't safe. You must never go beyond that door."

• "I think it would be wise if we all went to our rooms and were settled before eight o'clock."