Actions and Role:
- Stein is a prominent figure in the Buchenwald concentration camp.
- He holds high-ranking positions, such as being the block elder and the head of the prisoners' work detail in Buna.
- He uses his position to obtain special privileges for himself.
Interactions with Others:
- Stein is not overly concerned about the well-being of his fellow inmates.
- He is indifferent towards the suffering of others and often uses his power to exploit his fellow prisoners for his own gain.
- His treatment of the prisoners creates resentment among them, leading to a strained relationship with the other characters in the book.
Symbolic Significance:
- Stein represents the moral decay and corruption within the concentration camp system.
- Despite the harsh conditions and the dehumanizing effects of camp life, Stein demonstrates that people retain their capacity for cruelty, selfishness, and injustice.
Influence on Elie:
- Stein's actions negatively influence Elie's perception of humanity and his spiritual crisis during his time in the concentration camps.
- He becomes a reminder of the darkness and moral depravity that exists within the seemingly civilized society.
In conclusion, Stein serves as a crucial character in "Night." His selfishness and corruption represent a stark contrast to Elie's resilience and inner strength. Stein contributes to the exploration of complex moral dilemmas, the loss of faith, and the dehumanizing effects of the Nazi regime in the book.