The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea Essay Questions

Essay Questions

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  1. 1

    What is the symbolic role that the sea plays in this novel? 

    The sea serves as a powerful symbol that permeates the text. Noboru looks towards the sea as a kind of escape, a part of society that he does not despise but instead is captivated by its vastness. Ryuji, a sailor embodies the masculinity and glory befitting a man of the sea.

  2. 2

    What is the role of honor killing in the text?

    A masculine code of honor drives Noboru's actions. At first when Ryuji believes himself to be destined for greatness as a sailor, Noboru admires and respects him as an honourable man. However when Ryuji abandons the sea and all of its greatness, Noboru looses respect for Ryuji and reacts in the only way he can, by killing him. 

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