Question

Stephon must write a compare-and-contrast analysis of how culture shapes the heroes in both Heart of a Samurai and The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind. Read this passage from Heart of a Samurai.


“I guess you’ll never become a samurai now, huh, Manjiro-chan?”

“Why not?” Manjiro asked.

“Even if we should get home, you know very well you can’t be. You weren’t born into a samurai family. You were born a fisherman’s son and you will be a fisherman, and any sons you have, they also will be fishermen. That is the way it is; that is the way it has always been; that is the way it will always be.”

Manjiro sighed. That was always the reason; that had always been the reason; and, he supposed, that would always be the reason.

What does this passage show about the culture in which Manjiro was raised?

It was customary to continue in the same line of work as one’s family.
Only those chosen to be a samurai could ever hope to become one.
Becoming a fisherman was the most honorable job one could have.
Dreams were not encouraged and were viewed as silly and worthless.

Answer 1

The passage from *Heart of a Samurai* highlights that in the culture in which Manjiro was raised, there is a strong adherence to social hierarchy and family lineage. This is evident in the statement that Manjiro cannot become a samurai because he was not born into a samurai family. The emphasis on being "born a fisherman’s son" and the expectation that he will continue in the same line of work as his family underscores the cultural norm that individuals are generally expected to accept their predetermined roles based on their family background.

Therefore, the most accurate interpretation of the passage is that **it was customary to continue in the same line of work as one’s family.** This reflects the rigidity and social stratification inherent in the culture, where moving beyond one's designated role is not only discouraged but considered impossible.