Question

Compare how Gandhi’s courage and his determination in ‘Indigo’ helped him get justice for sharecroppers with William Douglas’ courage and persistence in the chapter ‘Deep Water’. (Indigo and Deep Water)

Hint:

Maintain balance between the two texts by comparing themes, characters, and contexts with equal weight.

Answer 1

Gandhi and William Douglas are two figures who show us different but equally powerful faces of courage. In ‘Indigo’, Gandhi demonstrates moral and political courage by fighting for the rights of oppressed sharecroppers in Champaran. Despite being a newcomer in the British legal system, Gandhi refuses to be intimidated. His strength lies in non-violence, truth, and unwavering commitment to justice. His calm but persistent resistance forces the authorities to address the plight of the farmers. His actions highlight the power of civil disobedience and selfless leadership. William Douglas, in contrast, faces a personal internal battle in ‘Deep Water’. Traumatized by a childhood experience of nearly drowning, he is plagued by intense fear. But he chooses not to be defined by it. Through self-discipline, rigorous training, and mental fortitude, Douglas overcomes his phobia and regains control over his life. His courage lies in confronting invisible, internal demons—a victory that brings him true freedom. While Gandhi’s courage takes on social and political systems, Douglas’ is psychological and deeply individual. Yet both characters exemplify the same core values—resilience, commitment, and the refusal to give in to fear. Their journeys underline that true courage is not the absence of fear but the will to act in spite of it. Both men also challenge the odds within their circumstances—Gandhi against a colonial empire and Douglas against trauma and self-doubt. Importantly, their stories inspire not just because of their victories, but because of the process they undertook to reach them. Gandhi shows how one man’s conviction can shift national consciousness, while Douglas demonstrates how personal struggle can lead to profound inner strength. Together, they prove that courage can manifest both in service to others and in healing oneself.