Resisting, Enduring and Embracing Multiculturalism in Michael Gregorio’s Days of Atonement

Michael Gregorio’s Days of Atonement depicts a significant picture of the national, international, and interior conflicts that characterized Prussia during the Enlightenment, a time when new ideas on humanity clashed with consolidated traditions and superstitions. The French invasion brought resentment and pillaging, but also significant reforms concerning equality and human rights; consequently, the characters betray the uncertainties and reactions typical of any sudden and forceful widening of borders. After the gruesome death of three children and the disappearance of their mother, Prussian Procurator Herr Stiffeniis is obligated to investigate with French criminologist Colonel Serge Lavedrine. Distrustful of his partner and wavering between nationalism and his desire to solve a case with important political implications, Stiffeniis comes to appreciate Lavedrine’s dedication and resourcefulness, to the point that he chooses to make a pact with him instead of following his superiors “in the interests of truth”. Lavedrine embodies his country’s best intentions and his profession’s interest in mankind and is therefore more open minded and definite in his decisions, treating people for what they do and not for who they are. Another instance of multiculturalism concerns the Jews’ situation and their willingness to overcome their hurt and distrust. Here, scientist Aaron Jacob paradoxically unites religion, science, multiculturalism and exclusion through the self-taught knowledge acquired during his travels, motivated by the Jew’s expulsion from different countries. Uniting these perspectives Stiffeniis is introduced to and applies new, inclusive strategies in order to solve the case. The novel therefore reflects on the clashes, tolerance and understanding found in many inclusive societies, both past and present.