The Sea and Poison
"The Sea and Poison" is a novel by Shusaku Endo, published in 1957. It is set during World War II and explores the moral dilemmas faced by Japanese doctors involved in medical experiments on prisoners of war. The story is narrated by a medical student who grapples with the ethical implications of his mentors' actions.
The novel delves into themes of guilt, complicity, and the human capacity for cruelty. It highlights the conflict between duty to one's country and the moral responsibility to preserve life. Through its characters, "The Sea and Poison" raises profound questions about the nature of humanity in times of war.