What Mala means to Vladek

Throughout Maus, Vladek and Mala possess a unique relationship. Spiegelman hints at and brings up their encounters frequently, but the nature of the marriage becomes especially clear on page 104. Mala “helped out after Anja’s funeral” while Vladek “keeps photos of Anja all around his desk- like a shrine” and “thinks always about her.” Mala brings comfort to Vladek as he continues to battle the loss of his first wife. Therefore, Mala, in Vladek’s mind, is supposed to be the replacement for Anja, yet she cannot replicate what is past. Vladek is unhappy with Mala, constantly questioning her. He says, “You see how she is? What have I to do with her?” Although Mala does numerous tasks for Vladek, he remains unsatisfied. After realizing his intentions in the marriage, all the complaints seem legitimate, though, because Mala will never be Vladek’s love. The burden he feels will never be lifted by her.  Only Anja can do that.