Introduction

In Episode 364 of The Great Books podcast, hosted by John J. Miller of the National Review, the focus is on Anne Frank's seminal work, The Diary of a Young Girl. Joining Miller is renowned author Ruth Franklin, known for her comprehensive research on Anne Frank, including her latest book, The Many Lives of Anne Frank, published by Yale University Press. The discussion delves deep into the enduring significance of Anne Frank's diary, its transformation from a personal journal to a historical memoir, and its lasting impact on readers worldwide.

Why The Diary of a Young Girl is a Great Book

Ruth Franklin opens the conversation by underscoring the universal acclaim of Anne Frank's diary. She states, “Probably, you know, just about everybody in the world would agree that The Diary of a Young Girl is a great book” (00:49). Franklin highlights the diary's extensive reach, having been translated into over 70 languages and selling more than 30 million copies. Its ability to resonate across diverse cultures and circumstances—from Eritrean refugees to anti-apartheid activists in South Africa—emphasizes its universal appeal and profound impact.

Diary or Memoir?

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the nature of Anne Frank's diary. Franklin clarifies that while the work presents itself as a diary, it also functions as a memoir. She explains, “The version that we read was actually edited not just by Otto Frank, Anne's father, but by Anne, her. She went back to the beginning...and rewrote it from the start” (03:18). This editing process transformed the diary from raw, day-to-day entries into a more cohesive narrative that provides deeper insights into the Holocaust's atrocities.

Life in the Secret Annex

The conversation then shifts to the living conditions within the Secret Annex, where Anne and her family hid from Nazi persecution. Franklin describes the annex as cramped and claustrophobic, housing eight people in a few small rooms. She notes the psychological strain of such confined living, stating, “It's a psychological study of human beings under extreme stress” (13:57). The annex's limited space, combined with constant fear of discovery, created a tense and challenging environment for its residents.

The Psychological Impact and Human Relations

Franklin delves into the psychological dynamics within the annex, highlighting how extreme stress affected interpersonal relationships. “We see Ann wondering the first year... she's wondering if she's going to be able to go back to school in the fall” (15:49). Anne's focus on maintaining her education amidst uncertainty underscores her resilience and desire for normalcy despite the dire circumstances.

Transformation of the Diary into a Memoir

A pivotal moment in the diary's evolution occurs in March 1944, when Anne realizes the historical significance of her writings. Upon hearing a Dutch minister's call for preserving personal documents, Anne is inspired to revise her diary entries to serve as a valuable historical record. Franklin recounts Anne’s proactive approach: “She writes... that it could be included in such a national archive” (18:14). This transformation elevated the diary from personal reflections to a crucial Holocaust testimony.

Final Entries and Anne's Fate

The final diary entry, dated August 1, 1944, leaves readers in suspense as Anne continues her philosophical musings without knowing her impending fate. Franklin explains, “It doesn't conclude because Anne didn't know that that was going to be her last entry” (23:34). Shortly after, the Nazis raid the annex, leading to the arrest and deportation of all its residents. Anne and her sister, Margot, were eventually transferred to Auschwitz and later to Bergen-Belsen, where they perished from typhus in early 1945.

Survival and Preservation of the Diary

Despite the destruction of the annex, Anne's diary survives thanks to the swift actions of the helpers, Miep Gies and Bep Voskuijl. Franklin narrates how the Gestapo officer inadvertently discarded Anne's briefcase, allowing Miep to recover and preserve the invaluable manuscripts. “When it became clear that Anne had died, she gave them to Otto instead” (29:39). Otto Frank, the sole survivor of the annex's residents, played a crucial role in publishing the diary, ensuring Anne's voice would endure.

Anne Frank: The Real Person vs. the Icon

Franklin's book, The Many Lives of Anne Frank, is discussed towards the end of the episode, where she distinguishes between the historical Anne Frank and her cultural iconography. “I found it amazing... the numerous, you know, uncountable ways in which Anne's face, her image, and her Persona are invoked by people” (32:46). Franklin emphasizes the importance of recognizing Anne's humanity and individuality beyond her symbolic representation, exploring how her story has been interpreted and reinterpreted over the decades.

Personal Connection and Enduring Relevance

Ruth Franklin shares her personal connection to Anne Frank, recalling how she received her first copy of the diary at eight years old and visiting the Anne Frank House as a child. This early exposure left a lasting impression, fueling her passion to explore Anne's life and legacy. Franklin concludes by affirming the diary's continued relevance in combating prejudice and anti-Semitism: “Our work is not over... the diary, to me, feels as relevant today as it ever has” (35:55).

Conclusion

The episode provides a comprehensive exploration of The Diary of a Young Girl, highlighting its literary significance, historical importance, and emotional depth. Through Ruth Franklin’s expert insights, listeners gain a deeper understanding of Anne Frank's enduring legacy and the profound impact her diary continues to have on readers around the world. The discussion underscores the diary's role not only as a personal account but also as a powerful testament to the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Note: All timestamps correspond to the points in the provided transcript.