The Enemy – Chapter Summary with Key Points
Author: Pearl S. Buck
Book: Vistas (Class 12 English)
Theme: Humanity vs. Patriotism
📌 Summary:
Set in Japan during World War II, The Enemy tells the story of Dr. Sadao Hoki, a Japanese surgeon, who faces a moral dilemma when he finds an injured American prisoner of war (POW) on the beach near his house. Despite considering him an enemy, his duty as a doctor compels him to save the man’s life, risking his reputation and safety.
📌 Key Points:
1️⃣ Introduction – Setting & Characters
✔ Dr. Sadao Hoki – A skilled Japanese surgeon, trained in America, but loyal to Japan.
✔ Hana – Sadao’s wife, supportive but initially hesitant.
✔ Servants – Strongly opposed to helping an enemy soldier.
✔ American Soldier – A wounded prisoner of war (POW), considered an enemy.
2️⃣ The Discovery of the American Soldier
✔ Dr. Sadao finds an injured American soldier near his house.
✔ He struggles with his duty as a doctor vs. loyalty to Japan.
✔ Despite the risks, he brings the soldier home to treat him.
3️⃣ Conflict & Moral Dilemma
✔ Hana is reluctant but helps Sadao care for the soldier.
✔ Their servants refuse to work and eventually leave.
✔ Fear of punishment increases as keeping the soldier could be considered treason.
4️⃣ The General’s Role
✔ Dr. Sadao informs a Japanese General, expecting the soldier to be arrested.
✔ The General, focused on his own illness, forgets to send the assassins.
5️⃣ The Escape Plan & Resolution
✔ Dr. Sadao secretly arranges a boat for the soldier’s escape.
✔ He provides food, clothes, and directions for a safe journey.
✔ The soldier successfully escapes, and Sadao finally feels relieved.
📌 Key Themes:
✔ Moral Dilemma – Choosing humanity over nationalism.
✔ War & Prejudice – The effects of hatred and discrimination.
✔ Duty vs. Patriotism – A doctor’s oath vs. loyalty to the country.
✔ Personal Growth – Sadao’s realization about humanity beyond war.
📌 Conclusion:
The Enemy highlights how compassion transcends war and national boundaries. Dr. Sadao, despite being a loyal Japanese citizen, chooses to save a life rather than take one. The story leaves us questioning: In war, who is the real enemy—our opponent or our hatred?
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