Relationship Strains

Trauma from war can be passed through from one generation to the next. This passing of trauma is sort of similar to the passing of tradition. Oftentimes, children are a reflection of their parents and the way they were raised. For example, in a normal household setting a parent may not allow their children to have dessert before dinner. Consequently enough, once those children are older they may not allow their children dessert before dinner either.  In both Maus I and II the reader can see the effects of war on both Vladek and Artie, especially when it comes to their relationship with one another. 

From the war, it seems that Vladek has adopted a short temper and a sort of worry for things that are unnecessary. This worry and temper reflect into his relationship with his son. For example, in both books there is never really a moment when the two of them share an emotional experience except front those relating to the war. Never does Vladek or Artie tell the other that they love them, or show any signs that they truly care for one another. They often, especially Artie, show a sort of disdain for one another. Vladek often asks for Artie to stay with him but fails to consider that he may not want to, or may have a life outside of taking care of his father and for this Vladek is selfish. Artie, on the other hand is very short with his father. All Artie seems to care about is hearing his fathers stories for his book, not taking care of him or helping him with the various favors Vladek asks of him. This strained relationship between the two of them may be because Vladek is emotionally scared front the war. Vladek may not be able to show the emotion the normal parent would because he is suffering from the trauma of war, including the loss of majority of his family members. This strain on Vladek transpires into his relationship with Artie causing a sort of distant relationship between them. What seems to be a lack of a normal father-son relationship can be considered one of traumas of the Holocaust being passed through their family.