Question

long ansr type question

Answer 1

Anne has a contentious relationship with Mrs van Daan, fraught with constant friction between the two. She considers Mrs van Daan to be a selfish, troublesome and coquettish woman who makes it a point to meddle in other people's affairs. For instance, Anne resents the fact that Mrs van Daan is always doling out unwanted suggestions on how to raise children and considers Anne to be a product of bad parenting. To Anne, Mrs van Daan is an antagonising figure in the secret annex who has an extremely high opinion of herself that is unjustified. However,Anne also notes that Mrs van Daan is cheerful and hardworking which are her redeeming qualities. In spite of the rebukes and insults that they often trade with each other, Anne values the woman's presence in the household.

Answer 2

Anne's inconsistent attitude toward Mrs. Van Daan is probably indicative of her journey through adolescence during the time the family is in hiding.  Early on, Anne finds her to be kind of funny and spirited (much like Anne herself).  Although no one in the hiding place is particularly enjoying themselves, Mrs. Van Daan complains frequently, a character trait Anne finds annoying.  She and Anne are also at cross purposes over Anne's relationship with Peter; as many mothers tend to do, Mrs. Van Daan is still treating him like a child, which irritates Anne.  One evening the group is engaged in conflict over Mr. Van Daan's stealing of bread--everyone is angry and things are not looking good for the future of the group--until news that the Allies have invaded Europe.  The group immediately buries their respective hatchets out of joy that hopefully they will soon free. Of course, the sad irony, we know, is that it is still too little, too late.  The hideout will be found, and only Otto Frank will survive the concentration camps.