Submitted to : Submitted by :

Mr. Prabhakar Dixit Sir Anuj Kumar

NAME : ANUJ KUMAR

CLASS : XII

STREAM : SCIENCE

SUBJECT : ENGLISH
CORE (301)
 DECLARATION
I hereby declare that ANUJ KUMAR, from class 12th of C. B.
Singh Gaur Memorial Senior Secondary College, Salempur
Kone Lakhimpur Kheri has successfully completed this project
report in English core (301) on the topic: "War and Peace" under
the guidance of Mr. Prabhakar Dixit Sir for partial fulfillment of
AISSCE as prescribed by the CBSE in the year 2023-24.

The information and data given in this project report are authentic
to the level of my knowledge.

Date:
Place:
Signed by Internal Examiner:

Anuj Kumar (49)

English Core (301

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I wish to express my deep gratitude and sincere thanks to the
Principal, Mr. Rakesh Gaur Sir, for his encouragement and for all
the facilities that he provided for this project work. I sincerely
appreciate this magnanimity by taking me into his fold for which I
shall remain indebted to him. I extend heartfelt thanks to Mr.
Prabhakar Dixit Sir, English teacher, who guided me to the
successful completion of this project.

I take this opportunity to express my deep sense of gratitude for his

invaluable encouragement, guidance, and constant immense
motivation which has sustained my efforts at all the stages of this
project work.

I can't forget to offer my sincere thanks to my parents and also to

my classmates who helped me to carry out this project work
successfully and for their valuable advice and support, which I
received from them from time to time.

ANUJ KUMAR
 TABLE OF CONTENT
● Objective

● About the Poet

● Introduction

● Importance of Peace

● Concept of War & Its effects

● Preventing Wars & Role of Students

● Conclusion

● Bibliography
 ABOUT THE POET

Pearl Sydenstricker Buck, 1892 - 1973

Born on June 26, 1892, in Hillsboro, West Virginia, Pearl Comfort Sydenstricker was
the offspring of Southern Presbyterian missionaries Absalom and Caroline
Sydenstricker, who were based in China. As the fourth of seven children, with only
three of them reaching adulthood, Pearl entered the world during her parents'
furlough in the United States. At the age of three months, she returned to China,
marking the initiation of spending the majority of her initial four decades in the
country.

Early Years and Heritage

Birth: Pearl Comfort Sydenstricker Buck came into the world on June 26, 1892, in
Hillsboro, West Virginia, USA.
Missionary Heritage: Born to Southern Presbyterian missionaries, her parents
embarked on their mission to China shortly after getting married. While they briefly
returned to the United States for Pearl's birth, they swiftly resumed their missionary
endeavors in China.
Bilingual Upbringing: Nurtured in China, Pearl experienced a bilingual upbringing,
becoming adept in both Chinese and English languages.

Residence in China
Zhenjiang and Nanjing: The Sydenstricker family established their home in
Zhenjiang, commonly recognized as Chingkiang, in close proximity to Nanjing. This
locale became Pearl's primary residence until 1934.
Inspiration from Summers: The annual summer sojourns to a villa in Kuling,
situated on Mountain Lu near Jiujiang, became pivotal in shaping Pearl's
aspirations. It was amid these tranquil surroundings that a young Pearl, influenced
by the serene atmosphere, resolved to pursue a career as a writer, fostering her
creativity and passion for storytelling.
Professional Journey and Accomplishments
Entrance into Literature: Pearl S. Buck marked her literary debut with the publication
of her inaugural novel, "East Wind, West Wind," in 1930. The Triumph of "The Good
Earth": Following her initial success, her subsequent novel, "The Good Earth,"
achieved unparalleled popularity. It emerged as the top-selling novel in the United
States for both 1931 and 1932, securing her the Pulitzer Prize in 1932
Nobel Laureate: In 1938, Pearl Buck made history as the first American woman to
receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. Recognized for her profound and epic
depictions of peasant life in China, she also garnered acclaim for her
memoir-biographies chronicling the lives of her missionary parents.
Humanitarian Ventures: Simultaneously with her literary pursuits, she founded the
Pearl S. Buck Foundation, a commendable humanitarian organization.

Advocacy and Controversy

Challenging Perspectives: Buck's viewpoints became a subject of controversy
during the Fundamentalist–Modernist clash, particularly due to her critical stance
on the necessity of foreign missions, leading to her resignation as a Presbyterian
missionary.
Activism and Marriage: Upon her return to the United States in 1935, she married
publisher Richard J. Walsh and continued her prolific writing career. Buck emerged
as an influential activist, championing women's rights and racial equality.
Championing Adoption: Buck's advocacy for Asian and mixed-race adoption earned
her widespread recognition and esteem.
Enduring Influence
Beyond Novels: Pearl S. Buck's impact extends far beyond her novels. Her
dedication to improving relations between Americans and Asians, her commitment
to peace, and her exploration of cultural subtleties remain influential.

Legacy
Remembered for her contributions to literature, humanitarian endeavors, and the
promotion of cross-cultural understanding, Pearl S. Buck’s life in China as an
American citizen fueled her unwavering dedication to bridging gaps and fostering
comprehension between diverse cultures.
 INTRODUCTION
The notion of peace is commonly understood as the absence of conflict or
violence, embodying a state of harmony and tranquility that allows people to
coexist in safety and security. Peace stands as a crucial element for human
well-being and progress, enabling the pursuit of goals and aspirations for a
better future, both for ourselves and for future generations.

The theme of "peace" resonates universally across cultures, literature, and

historical contexts. Drawing inspiration from Pearl S. Buck's short story, "The
Enemy," we delve into the profound impact of peace even amid wartime. Set
against the backdrop of World War II in Japan, the narrative introduces Dr.
Sadao, a Japanese surgeon grappling with the ethical dilemma of prioritizing
professional principles over national allegiance.

Dr. Sadao's moral conflict emerges when he discovers a wounded American

sailor, an escaped prisoner of war, washed ashore near his residence. Despite
the sailor being an adversary, Dr. Sadao chooses compassion over patriotism.
He conceals the injured man, performs life-saving surgery, and embarks on a
journey that challenges societal norms and transcends national boundaries.

As we explore the concept of peace, let us contemplate how individual acts of

compassion can transcend conflicts and cultivate understanding. Join me on this
exploration as we unravel the layers of peace, assess its significance, and
acknowledge its role in shaping our global landscape.
 THE SIGNIFICANCE OF PEACE
1.Preservation of Lives:
Human Lives: Peace serves as the bedrock for safeguarding human lives.
During times of conflict, lives are tragically lost on battlefields, through
bombings, and as a result of pervasive violence. Peace is the assurance that
families can stay whole, children can grow up without the shadow of fear, and
communities can flourish.

Civilian Well-being: Peace provides civilians with the freedom to navigate their
daily lives without the perpetual specter of war hanging over them. It
guarantees safety in homes, schools, and workplaces, creating an environment
where individuals can pursue their routines without the constant threat of
violence.

2.Fostering Progress and Prosperity

Economic Prosperity: Nations that enjoy peace are conducive to economic
stability and growth. In such environments, trade flourishes, businesses thrive,
and investments flow seamlessly. Conversely, war disrupts economies,
resulting in poverty, unemployment, and overall instability.

Scientific and Technological Progress: Peaceful settings provide fertile ground

for scientific and technological advancements. The absence of conflict
encourages collaboration among scientists across borders, leading to
breakthroughs in medicine, communication, and space exploration. In a
peaceful atmosphere, innovation flourishes, contributing to the overall progress
of societies.

3.Cultural Exchange and Mutual Understanding

Cultural Flourishing: Peace creates the conditions for cultural exchange to
thrive. Individuals from diverse backgrounds can share their art, music, cuisine,
and traditions without the barriers of conflict. This exchange not only enriches
societies but also broadens perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding of
the world's diversity.

Education and Tolerance: Peace is a catalyst for education, allowing schools to

operate without disruption. In a peaceful environment, students have the
opportunity to learn about global history, languages, and diverse cultures.
Tolerance and acceptance naturally flourish in such settings, as education
becomes a bridge to understanding and appreciating differences.

4. Environmental Protection
Environmental Preservation: Peaceful nations prioritize and actively engage in
environmental conservation efforts. Collaboratively, they address issues like
climate change, work towards protecting endangered species, and ensure the
availability of clean air and water resources. In an atmosphere of peace, the
focus on sustainability and environmental well-being becomes a shared
commitment, leading to a healthier planet for current and future generations.
Preventing Environmental Degradation: Conflict and war often result in severe
environmental devastation, including deforestation, pollution, and the
destruction of ecosystems. Peaceful cooperation and resolution play a vital role
in preventing such irreversible harm to the environment. In a state of peace,
nations can collaborate to mitigate the negative impact on ecosystems,
fostering a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world.

5. Mental and Emotional Well-Being

Mitigating Emotional Impact: War inflicts profound emotional scars on soldiers,
civilians, and children. In contrast, peace serves as a mitigating force,
minimizing trauma and providing individuals the opportunity to heal and rebuild
their lives.

Fostering Happiness: Societies in a state of peace often exhibit higher levels of

happiness and overall well-being. In such environments, people can pursue
their dreams, form meaningful relationships, and experience joy without the
pervasive fear of violence. The absence of conflict contributes significantly to
the overall happiness and fulfillment of individuals within a peaceful society.

6. Role of Education and Youth

Peace Education: Schools have a crucial role in imparting knowledge about
peace, empathy, and conflict resolution to children. Educated youth, armed with
an understanding of these principles, often become advocates for peace.

Youth as Catalysts for Change: Young individuals possess the ability to

challenge stereotypes, advocate for tolerance, and actively contribute to
creating a more peaceful world. Their energy and idealism become driving
forces for positive change, making them instrumental in shaping a more
harmonious and understanding global community.

Peace is not a passive state; it demands active and intentional choices.

Whether as individuals, communities, or nations, we must actively pursue and
strive for peace. Let us embrace the role of peacemakers, working to bridge
divides, foster understanding, and contribute to the creation of a world where
compassion triumphs over conflict.
 THE CONCEPT OF WAR AND ITS
EFFECTS
War is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by numerous factors. Nevertheless,
some of the most prevalent causes of war encompass:
(i) Competition for resources: Countries may go to war over resources such as
land, water, and oil.
(ii)Ideological differences: Countries with different political or religious
ideologies may go to war in an effort to impose their views on others.
(iii)Nationalism: Countries may go to war in order to expand their territory or to
protect their national interests.

The narrative unfolds in Japan amid the tumult of World War II, centering on
Sadao, a Japanese surgeon who had studied in America and married a
Japanese woman named Hana.

One fateful night, Sadao and Hana discover a wounded American soldier on
the beach near their home. Torn between their allegiance to their country and
their innate compassion, they grapple with a moral dilemma.

Despite harboring a deep resentment towards Americans, Sadao decides to

save the soldier's life by conducting a surgery on him. He clandestinely nurses
the soldier back to health within the confines of his home, shielding him from
both authorities and household servants.

To address the predicament, Sadao confides in General, one of his patients,

about the presence of the American soldier. The General, while initially
promising to dispatch assassins, becomes preoccupied with the demands of
war and forgets his pledge.
Haunted by guilt for sheltering the enemy, Sadao contemplates taking matters
into his own hands and ending the soldier's life. However, faced with the
undeniable humanity of his patient and recognizing the bond they share as
doctor and friend, Sadao finds himself unable to carry out this act.

Ultimately, grappling with his conflicting loyalties, Sadao facilitates the soldier's
escape. Providing him with a boat, provisions, water, and directions to a nearby
island, Sadao ensures the soldier's safe passage, allowing him to reunite with
his fellow Americans.

The tale concludes with Sadao and Hana observing the soldier sailing away, left
to ponder the morality of their actions.

Pearl S. Buck's "The Enemy" stands as a poignant testament to the potential for
achieving peace through human compassion and understanding, even in the
midst of war and animosity. The narrative underscores that the enemy is not an
abstract, malevolent force but a person with emotions, aspirations, and dreams,
deserving of respect and dignity. Furthermore, it illuminates the destructive and
senseless nature of war, emphasizing the pain and suffering it inflicts on both
sides, while highlighting the possibility of prevention through dialogue and
cooperation.

The story advocates for the pivotal role of students in promoting peace. By
immersing themselves in the study of different cultures and perspectives,
challenging stereotypes and prejudices, and disseminating messages of love
and harmony, students emerge as vital contributors to the pursuit of a more
peaceful world. "The Enemy" encourages reflection on the power of empathy
and education in fostering understanding, breaking down barriers, and
ultimately building bridges towards a more compassionate and harmonious
global community
PREVENTING WAR AND THE ROLE OF
STUDENTS
There are many things that can be done to prevent war. The include:
Promoting dialogue and understanding: Countries should engage in dialogue
and diplomacy in order to resolve their differences peacefully.
Building international institutions: International institutions such as the United
Nations can play a role in preventing war by providing a forum for countries to
resolve their disputes peacefully and by deploying peacekeeping forces to
areas of conflict.
Educating children about peace: Peace education is essential for preventing
war. Children should be taught about the importance of peace and the
consequences of war.

Students can play an important role in preventing war by:

Educating themselves about peace: Students can learn about peace by taking
peace education classes, reading books and articles about peace, and
watching documentaries about peace. Promoting peace in their schools and
communities: Students can organize peace rallies, start peace clubs, and
volunteer for organizations that promote peace.
Advocating for peace at the local, national, and international levels: Students
can write letters to their elected officials, organize protests, and start
campaigns to promote peace.
 CONCLUSION
Peace stands as a cornerstone for human well-being, economic prosperity, and
environmental sustainability. War, on the contrary, emerges as the adversary of
peace, unleashing devastating consequences on both individuals and societies.
Students wield significant influence in the prevention of war by arming
themselves with knowledge about peace, championing peace within their
educational institutions and communities, and advocating for peace on local,
national, and global platforms.

Pearl S. Buck's narrative, "The Enemy," serves as a compelling illustration of

how peace can prevail through human compassion and understanding, even
amid the turmoil of war and hatred. The story poignantly portrays the enemy not
as a faceless or inherently evil entity, but as a person with emotions,
aspirations, and dreams deserving of respect and dignity. It underscores the
destructive and senseless nature of war, elucidating the pain and suffering it
inflicts on all sides, while emphasizing the potential for prevention through
dialogue and cooperation.

Moreover, "The Enemy" underscores the pivotal role that students can play in
the promotion of peace. By engaging in the exploration of diverse cultures and
perspectives, challenging stereotypes and prejudices, and disseminating
messages of love and harmony, students emerge as key contributors to the
pursuit of a more peaceful world. The story encourages a reflection on the
power of empathy, education, and advocacy in fostering understanding,
breaking down barriers, and ultimately contributing to the cultivation of a more
compassionate and harmonious global community.
 BIBLIOGRAPHY
For the successful completion of my project, I got help from these
websites:
(i) www.google.com
(ii) www.unsplash.com
(iii) www..wikipedia.com

I have also utilized the English Vistas – Supplementary Reader textbook

for Class XII from the NCERT curriculum