Question

Explain at least 3 elements of Japanese culture that help Algren overcome his demons

Answer 1

Honor:

Honor can be defined as both: "high respect; great esteem" and "adherence to what is right or to a conventional standard of conduct."

By finding his honor and fighting, finally, to what is right in his heart, Algren finds some internal piece and redemption.

Bushido:

Bushido (武士道) literally, "warrior's way," is a code of conduct and way of life for the Samurai (warrior class of feudal Japan), vaguely similar to the concept of chivalry that sets the parameters for Samurais to live and die with honor. Through the Bushido, Algren learns the importance of order, humility, and respect in a society, which makes him value those who sacrifice themselves in order to maintain the societal order. Even though it might not seen as entirely fair, Algren sees everyone doing their best to honor their family names and also sees the warriors as an example to be found, because of their code of conduct and self honesty.

Ikigai:

Ikigai is a Japanese word that translates as "the reason for being" or "those life goals that make us get up every morning". For the Japanese, we all carry our own ikigai within us and it is essential to discover it, make it ours and carry it as a flag. It seems that the most we approach the end of the movie, the closer Algren is to understanding his own Ikigai.

Answer 2

When the protagonist of the film, Nathan Algren (Tom Cruise), is in a Samurai village within Japan's countryside, he notes that “There is so much here I will never understand. I've never .... Naturally, bushido has great appeal for Algren and ultimately helps him come to peace with his demons.