Class 12 English - UP
Supplementary: The Enemy
The Enemy, a chapter from the Class 12 English Supplementary Reader (Vistas) prescribed by the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP), explores the ethical dilemma faced by Dr. Sadao Hoki, a Japanese surgeon. During World War II, Dr. Sadao finds an injured American prisoner of war washed ashore near his home. As a doctor, his professional oath compels him to save a dying man, but as a Japanese citizen, harboring an enemy is an act of treason. This chapter is vital for UPMSP board exams as it frequently features long-answer and short-answer questions testing students' comprehension of morality, humanity, and patriotism.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Dr. Sadao Hoki
A brilliant Japanese surgeon trained in America, torn between his scientific duty to save lives and his loyalty to his country during wartime.
Hana
Dr. Sadao's loyal and supportive wife who stands by him through the moral crisis and helps nurse the wounded American soldier despite the risks.
The American Prisoner of War (Tom)
A young, escaped American naval soldier who represents the 'enemy' to Japan, yet becomes the catalyst for testing Dr. Sadao's humanitarian values.
General Takada
A selfish Japanese General who is absorbed in his own health and ailments, representing the corruption and political detachment of those in power.
Conflict Between Duty and Humanity
The core theme of the chapter highlighting how universal human compassion transcends political enmity and nationalist hatred.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Uttar Pradesh (UPMSP) Class 12 English Literature board exam, questions from 'The Enemy' typically contribute around 4 to 8 marks. Students can expect one short-answer question (around 30-40 words) and one long-answer question (around 150 words) focusing on character sketches, theme analysis, or the moral dilemma faced by Dr. Sadao.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Dr. Sadao save the American soldier despite knowing the consequences?
As a trained physician, Dr. Sadao's primary professional and moral ethics compelled him to save a dying human being, regardless of his nationality.
How did General Takada react when he learned about the American prisoner?
The General promised to have the American assassinated quietly by his private assassins to protect Dr. Sadao, but he forgot due to his own illness and selfishness.
What message does the author Pearl S. Buck convey through this story?
The author conveys that basic human sympathy and professional ethics are far greater and more important than narrow national prejudices and war.
Learn Supplementary: The Enemy with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards