Question

Read this passage from Heart of a Samurai. Look for important evidence about how Manjiro approaches his culture.

"Oh, honored friend," he said, "I present your katana – your long sword. And your wakizashi – your short knife. "



Then he took two smooth pieces of driftwood of unequal length for himself. He shoved the short piece into the cloth belt he wore around his waist and waved the other one like a sword, challenging Goemon.



"We can’t carry swords," Goemon said. "You know that. "



"May I humbly suggest," Manjiro said, "that on this island, we are the rulers – we are the Samurai of Bird Island. "



—Heart of a Samurai,


Margi Preus



Write two sentences that explain what this evidence tells you about Manjiro’s culture

Answer 1

2 sentences:

The evidence suggests that Manjiro values his cultural heritage and has a deep respect for the Samurai tradition, as seen in his willingness to carry and use swords despite being told that they cannot.

He also displays adaptability and resourcefulness in using driftwood as a substitute for traditional weapons, suggesting a willingness to innovate while still honoring his cultural traditions.

Important evidence:

The evidence provided in the passage suggests that Manjiro approaches his culture with a sense of respect and reverence. He values the Samurai tradition and is willing to carry and use swords, which are symbols of that tradition. At the same time, he is also adaptable and resourceful, using driftwood as a substitute for traditional weapons, which shows that he is willing to innovate while still honoring his cultural traditions. Overall, Manjiro appears to have a deep connection to his cultural heritage and takes great care to maintain and honor it, even in new and unfamiliar circumstances.

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