What is an important motif in the novel, The Women in the Castle?

Shattuck uses the motif of German culture and words to remind the reader of the context, though the book is written in English. Shattuck sprinkles the novel with German food, traditions, and concepts to immerse the reader in this location and time period. The use of German words also conveys an emotional element. For instance, when Marianne meets Benita for the first time, Benita is wearing a dirndl, a traditional German peasant costume. This word signifies Benita’s simplicity and innocence, as well as the pride of her German heritage. When Ania Brandt meets Ania Graberek on the road, they play games such as asking each other, “Which would you rather: eat Sauerbraten or fresh cream” (112). Sauerbraten is a meat dish, traditionally made of horse. They ask each other these questions to pass the time, but to also remind each other of the world as they knew it before, and to help them get through the tough times ahead.