Here's a breakdown of why Haskel is portrayed as a villain in Maus:
* He betrays Vladek's trust: Haskel, Vladek's friend, is a Polish man who initially helps Vladek and Anja survive during the war. However, he later betrays Vladek by reporting him to the Nazis. This act of betrayal causes Vladek great pain and mistrust, and he never forgives Haskel.
* He is a collaborator with the Nazis: Haskel, for his own survival, collaborates with the Nazi regime. He betrays his own people for his own benefit, making him complicit in the persecution of Jews.
* He represents the complexities of human nature: Haskel's character is a complex one. He is not entirely evil; he also displays moments of kindness and compassion. However, his ultimate betrayal highlights the dark side of human nature and the ways in which people can succumb to fear and opportunism in difficult circumstances.
In summary: Haskel is depicted as a villain in Maus because of his betrayal, collaboration with the Nazis, and the moral compromise he made during the Holocaust.
It's crucial to remember that *Maus* is a complex and nuanced work that doesn't provide easy answers or simple characterizations. The portrayal of Haskel, as well as other characters, reflects the multifaceted and often difficult realities of the Holocaust and the complexities of human behavior in times of great suffering.