In any situation where a group of men are confined for many months or years, sexual urges often are expressed in homosexual acts, though the men may not be homosexual and do not continue having homosexual relations after joining society. Discuss the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of homosexuality throughout the novel. Is it generally accepted or scorned? Is homosexuality practiced by men in all ranks and nationalities?

2. Even if you have reservations about homosexuality from a moral and/or social standpoint, do you think such behavior under the circumstances of a place like Changi is understandable? Morally acceptable? Justifiable?

3. In chapter 18, Rodrick tells Marlowe that Sean was ordered to play the part of a woman on stage, although, at first, he is reluctant to do so. Do you think that should be considered a lawful order, punishable by court martial if Sean refuses? Is the order fair? What do you think is the rationale behind ordering Sean to get up on stage and play a woman? Is it for his protection (so he can say he was ordered and would not be harassed)? For the psychological health of the men? Or both?

Essay Topic 2

In Chapter 6, Marlowe's stories demonstrate how racism is integral to the Asian war.

1. Using Marlowe's stories in Chapter 6, discuss how racism adds to the normal atrocities of the war in the Pacific theater.

2. Research and discuss the Japanese racial beliefs in connection both with other Asian nations and with non-Oriental nations.

3. Research and discuss how the Americans used racism against the Japanese for propaganda in gaining support for the war in the Pacific. How do you think American racism influenced how Americans treat Japanese prisoners?

4. How much do you think racism play in the Japanese internment camps in the United States during WWII?

Essay Topic 3

In Chapter 12, as the King haggles with Torusumi about selling a wath, King is very much aware of the fact that saving Face is an essential element of the Asian mindset. If the King gives Torusumi the opportunity to save face, it will make for a more successful transaction and keep Torusumi from seeking revenge. Discuss the following:

1. Research the concept of "saving face" and write in your own words a definition for the concept.

2. How does the King allow Torusumi to "save face"?

3. Does the King seem concerned with saving face in this transaction? What about in any other situation in the book?

4. Which characters seem concerned with saving face? How do they demonstrate this?

(see the answer keys)

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