The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea Essay Questions

Essay Questions

These notes were contributed by members of the GradeSaver community. We are thankful for their contributions and encourage you to make your own.

Written by people who wish to remain anonymous

  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. 

Update this section!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this section.

Update this section

After you claim a section you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.

Cite this page
GradeSaver will pay $15 for your literature essays
GradeSaver will pay $25 for your college application essays
GradeSaver will pay $50 for your graduate school essays – Law, Business, or Medical
GradeSaver will pay $10 for your Community Note contributions
GradeSaver will pay $500 for your Textbook Answer contributions