In Jonathan Safran Foer's "Everything Is Illuminated," a character expresses a naive curiosity about Jewish people, exemplified by her remark about never having seen a Jew and her whimsical request to see his horns. This reflects a broader theme of misunderstanding and stereotypes surrounding different cultures and religions. The quote underscores the surreal and often humorous aspects of the characters' interactions, highlighting how ignorance can lead to endearing yet misguided questions.
Throughout the narrative, these moments serve to illustrate the contrasts between characters' backgrounds and beliefs. The character's innocent inquiry points to the deep-rooted prejudices that can persist in society. Through such moments, Foer's novel encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of identity and the importance of understanding and empathy in bridging cultural divides.