Adolf Hitler:
1. Historical Context: Hitler was a central figure in World War II and represented the Nazis' extreme ideology and their atrocities. By mentioning Hitler, Hillenbrand establishes the larger context of the war and the immense challenges faced by Allied prisoners, including Zamperini.
2. Personal Connection: Zamperini and his fellow POWs were directly impacted by Hitler's regime. They encountered Nazi brutality firsthand in the prison camps, making Hitler a symbol of the oppression and suffering they endured.
Anne Frank:
1. Parallel Experiences: Anne Frank's diary, which documented her experiences hiding from the Nazis in an attic during the Holocaust, became a symbol of resilience and the human spirit in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Hillenbrand draws a parallel between Anne and Zamperini, both of whom faced extreme hardship and deprivation yet held onto hope and perseverance.
2. Cultural Symbol: Anne Frank's story resonates with readers worldwide and has become synonymous with the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. By alluding to Anne, Hillenbrand creates an immediate emotional connection and amplifies the impact of Louise's experiences, highlighting the universal human struggle for survival and dignity in the face of immense adversity.
These references not only provide relevant historical context but also add a layer of empathy and emotional depth to Zamperini's narrative, allowing the readers to draw connections between different stories of resilience, suffering, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of war and oppression.