The Jesse Owens Incident

Context

• Set in 1936 during the Nazi regime and the Berlin Olympics, known as Hitler's Games.
• Jesse Owens, an African-American athlete, won four gold medals, challenging racist ideologies.
• Hitler's refusal to shake Owens' hand symbolized deep-seated racism.

Rudy Steiner's Fascination

• Rudy Steiner becomes inspired by Jesse Owens' achievements.
• At home, while his family watched the Olympics, Rudy sneaked into the kitchen, grabbed charcoal, and covered himself in black.
• He imagined himself as Jesse Owens, idolizing his athletic prowess.

Rudy's 'Race'

• Rudy steals his older brother's bike and heads to Hubert Oval to emulate Owens.
• Described the moonlit night vividly, adding emotional depth to Rudy's adventure.
• He re-enacts a race, even commentating his actions and imagining a cheering crowd.
• Completes the imaginary race, feeling a sense of victory.

Confrontation with His Father

• Rudy's father, Mr. Steiner, finds him and reacts sternly.
• Describes Mr. Steiner as typically polite but unable to understand Rudy's behavior.
• Mr. Steiner questions Rudy, leading to Rudy simply explaining he was being Jesse Owens.
• Mr. Steiner punishes Rudy, showing his confusion and concern over the charcoal.

Mixed Feelings on Race and Politics

• Mr. Steiner is a complex character: a Nazi Party member but does not hate Jews or other races.
• Feels conflicted relief when Jewish businesses close but also questions the morality of such actions.
• Mr. Steiner’s inner conflict is highlighted by his contradictory feelings and actions.

A Father's Explanation

• Mr. Steiner tries to educate Rudy on the social and political realities, albeit confusingly.
• Emphasizes the danger and social taboos of painting oneself black during that era.
• Rudy, still naively interested in Jesse Owens, doesn't fully grasp his father's warnings.
• Discussion on race becomes murky and unclear for Rudy, foreshadowing more complex issues ahead.

Reflection and Consequences

• Conversation ends without clarity; Rudy's admiration for Owens remains but is subdued by his father's caution.
• The incident is a prelude to the increasing political and social tensions, represented by the eventual destruction of the Kaufmann's shop.