In The Enemy, Dr. Sadao Hoki grapples with a profound moral dilemma that highlights the tension between his responsibilities as a private individual and his national loyalty. While his duty as a surgeon compels him to save the life of the wounded American POW, doing so conflicts with his identity as a Japanese citizen during wartime. This internal struggle illustrates the complexity of ethical decision-making, as Dr. Sadao ultimately prioritizes his humanitarian instincts over societal expectations, showcasing how personal values can challenge nationalistic sentiments. His choice underscores the importance of empathy and compassion in the face of rigid allegiances.
This question related to Chapter English Vistas Class 12th NCERT.
From the Chapter 4. The Enemy.
Give answer according to your understanding.
Many times it happens with all of us when we are not able to take decisions as citizens of the country and private individuals. A similar incident happens in this story as well.This story was written when both America and Japan were fighting against each other in World War 2. Even the citizens of both the countries hated each other.
When the doctors see the man lying on the seashore, the first thought is to push him back into the sea. Dr. Sadao concluded that he was a sailor from an American warship. The man must be a prisoner of war. His duty as a citizen was to hand him over to the police and his wife Hana was also in this favour. While studying as a doctor, Sadao had learned that one should always help the sick or the injured irrespective of caste, color or nationality. Serving the sick is the best religion in the world.He knew that he would die very soon by handing over to the police.His thinking was like that of a doctor which was absolutely right. The job of a doctor is to save lives, not to kill.After and during the recovery of wounded man’s injury, the doctor and his wife did not hide anything from servants.When the right time came, the couple being a patriot shared everything with their General. They made right decision at right time.
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