Commander George Krause

Commander Krause is the book’s central character and protagonist. He is described as being in his early forties, and of a solid physicality. He is also described as “the son of a Lutheran minister … devoutly brought up, and … a man very familiar with the Bible” (8). This aspect of his identity is perhaps more important than any other, in that as the narrative portrays him, Krause’s Christian faith is a dominating influence on virtually every decision he makes. This is true of his decisions as a naval commander, and his decisions as a man. As such, is a defining component of the book’s overall thematic consideration of the power of Christian faith.

A second key aspect of Krause’s identity is his experience of, and perspectives on, duty and discipline. Here again, the character and his behavior are an embodiment of one of the...