Class 12 English - GUJARAT
Supplementary: The Enemy
The chapter 'The Enemy' by Pearl S. Buck, included in the GSEB Class 12 English Supplementary Reader, explores the complex moral dilemma faced by Dr. Sadao Hadae, a Japanese surgeon. Amidst World War II, Sadao discovers an injured, escaping American prisoner of war washed ashore near his home. As a doctor bound by the Hippocratic Oath, he must save a human life; as a Japanese citizen, harboring an enemy is treason. This poignant story addresses themes of universal humanism versus narrow nationalism, making it a favorite for board exam value-based and long-answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Dr. Sadao Hadae
A talented Japanese surgeon and scientist torn between his professional duty to save lives and his patriotic duty to his country during wartime.
Hana
Sadao's loyal and supportive wife who stands by him through the ethical crisis, assisting in the surgery despite her own fears.
The American Prisoner of War (Tom)
A young, battered US Navy sailor who represents both the 'enemy' and a helpless human being needing medical intervention.
General Takima
A self-absorbed Japanese military general who keeps Sadao close for his own medical needs and promises to secretly get rid of the prisoner, but forgets.
Ethical Dilemma
The core conflict between humanism (compassion for all humanity) and patriotism (loyalty to one's nation during war).
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 12 English board exam, chapters from the supplementary reader typically contribute around 8 to 12 marks. Common question types include short answer questions (2-3 marks) focusing on character motivations and plot details, as well as long descriptive/value-based questions (4-5 marks) analyzing the ethical dilemmas faced by Dr. Sadao.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Dr. Sadao help the American soldier despite knowing the consequences?
As a doctor, Sadao was bound by his professional ethics and the Hippocratic Oath to save a dying human being, regardless of his nationality or political affiliation.
How did Hana display courage throughout the ordeal?
Hana showed immense courage by nursing the wounded soldier, washing him herself when the servants refused, and supporting her husband through the immense risk of treason.
Why didn't General Takima have Dr. Sadao arrested for treason?
The General was selfish and relied entirely on Sadao's exceptional surgical skills for his own health condition. He feared that if Sadao was arrested, no other doctor could successfully operate on him.
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