Question

Write a detailed character sketch of Dr. Sadao, highlighting his dilemma between duty and humanity.

Hint:

In a character sketch, focus on qualities, actions, internal conflicts, and how the character’s decisions reveal their personality.

Answer 1

Concept: In the chapter "The Enemy" by Pearl S. Buck, Dr. Sadao represents the conflict between national duty and human compassion. His character highlights the moral struggle between being a loyal citizen and being a humanitarian doctor.
Explanation: Dr. Sadao Hoki is a skilled and dedicated Japanese surgeon who studied medicine in America. He is intelligent, disciplined, and highly respected in his profession. Despite his loyalty to Japan during the war, he possesses a deep sense of humanity and professional ethics.
As a doctor, Sadao strongly believes in saving lives. When a wounded American prisoner of war washes ashore near his house, he faces a serious moral dilemma. On one hand, as a patriotic Japanese citizen, he knows that helping the enemy could be considered treason. On the other hand, as a doctor, he cannot ignore a dying man who needs medical attention.
Initially, he hesitates and thinks of handing the soldier over to the authorities. However, his conscience does not allow him to let the man die. His medical oath and humanitarian instincts overpower his sense of national duty. He performs a risky surgery and saves the soldier’s life, even though he knows it may endanger his own position and safety.
Throughout the story, Sadao’s inner conflict is evident. He struggles with fear, doubt, and responsibility. Yet, he never compromises on his professional ethics. Even after saving the soldier, he finds a practical solution by helping him escape, thereby balancing his duty to his country and his duty as a doctor.
Thus, Dr. Sadao is portrayed as compassionate, ethical, courageous, and morally upright. His character beautifully reflects the triumph of humanity over narrow nationalism.