Discussion of "Schindler's List"

1. Thomas Keneally, the author of the book, Schindler's List, remarked in a recent interview that what drew him to the character of Oskar Schindler was his strange combination of goodness and evil. Times were such that only a scoundrel could do righteousness. In what ways do you agree or disagree with Keneally? What does this teach about good and evil in the world?
2. Imagine that a plague of violence erupts in your community, and a refugee family arrives at your door seeking safety. Would you be prepared to risk your life and the lives of your family to save these strangers, different from you in so many ways? What would be your reasons for making this decision? What are your assumptions and conclusions? What category of moral reasoning are you using?
3. Should we teach children (including our own) this ethic of heroic self-sacrifice and responsibility? Should that be part of their character education? Why or why not? What would be the full implications of such a way-of-life? What are your assumptions and conclusions? What category of moral reasoning are you using?
4. This film subtly describes Oskar Schindler's transformation. What experiences changed him? At what point was it clear that he had changed? Can a human being "grow" a conscience? How did Itzchak Stern, the Jewish manager, change his attitude toward Schindler? What was the significance of the little girl in the red coat?