Question

Answer the following question in about 120-150 words:

The influence of belief in traditions such as religion, family bonds, or patriotism can be used to develop narrative techniques like setting, motivation, sources of conflict, and pacing. Analyse how the writer has incorporated such influences to good effect in the story, The Enemy. Support your answer with valid textual evidence.

Answer 1

Incorporation of Traditions:

• Religion: How beliefs about religion influence individuals' actions and decisions.
  For example, moral convictions shaped by religious teachings may have an impact on Sadao's inner conflicts.
• Family Bonds: How familial dynamics influence character interactions and motivations.
  For example, Hana's concern for her family's protection and the potential consequences of containing an enemy soldier may influence her choices.
• Patriotism: How national devotion and patriotism drive tension and conflict in the story.
  For example, Sadao's responsibility as a citizen and doctor could conflict with his compassion for the wounded soldier, illustrating the difficulties of wartime allegiances.

Narrative Techniques:

• Setting: The wartime setting increases the protagonists' moral quandaries.
  The backdrop of war raises the stakes and adds urgency to their decisions.
• Motivation: How cultural influences create character motivations and propel the story in the future.
  The characters' conduct may be motivated by deeply ingrained cultural ideals and beliefs.
• Sources of Conflict: The primary conflicts originate from cultural differences, expectations, and wartime situations.
  These conflicts propel the story along while heightening the sense of uncertainty.
• Pacing: The rapid pace of the story reflects the characters' internal and exterior conflicts.
  The pace may vary to portray times of tension, reflection, and resolution.