Essay Questions

Why are the Hungarian people constantly living in fear?

Throughout the book, it is notable that the people of Hungary are living in fear of death because of the unending war. Despite these threats, the Hungarian people are participating in the war to keep their inheritance and survival. The author makes it clear that the Soviet Union's grand scheme is to make Budapest disappear because it is seen as insignificant. For instance, the Soviet Union authorities do not want any kind of political representation from Budapest. However, The Hungarians living in Budapest want to preserve their territory regardless of how small it is. Therefore, despite living in fear of death and destruction, the people in this small region are fighting relentlessly to preserve their survival and legacy.

What is the irony of the war in The Bridge at Andau by James Michener?

Under normal circumstances, no individual is willing to participate in the war. However, it is ironic for the Hungarians living in Budapest because they welcome the war and see it as an opportunity to accomplish their goals. The primary objective of the locals is to engage in the war so that they can preserve their legacy and survival. The seal, sacrifice, and determination of the local people to participate in the war is unmeasurable.

How does the author depict the imagery of insurgency in The Bridge at Andau?

The depiction of ancient and modern occurrences is evident in the book. The book precisely narrates on how the people of Hungary engaged themselves in an uprising in the year 1956. The author paints an imaginary image of the struggles the locals underwent to preserve the legacy of modern Hungary. The imagery of insurgency in this book helps the reader to visualize the ancient happenings in Budapest and the sacrifice the people made to make it a beautiful country it is today.