War Is Unseen Legacy Exploring The Impact Of Science And Technology In WWII Through The English Patient And Black Rain

Abstract

The emergence of the modern state, accompanied by its technological advancements, was celebrated as a new era for humanity. The promises of enlightenment seemed to have come to fruition, with scientific innovations poised to propel humanity towards a universal culture. Long-standing issues such as disease, ignorance, and poverty appeared destined to fade into obscurity, given that science and industrialization had bolstered human intellect and productivity. However, amidst this optimistic narrative, dissenting voices have emerged to critique the shortcomings of modernism and its overarching narrative. Critics lament the tendency of modernist ideologies to mechanize human existence, stifling individual creativity and moral sensibilities. Through coercion and conformity, the modern state supplants individual cultural assessment and fosters violence and intellectual apathy, thereby impeding progress. This research paper delves into the lesser-explored aspects of World War II (WWII) by examining the profound impact of science and technology during this tumultuous period. Through a comparative analysis of Michael Ondaatje’s The English Patient and Masuji Ibuse's Black Rain, this study seeks to uncover how advancements in science and technology shaped the wartime experience and left a lasting legacy on post-war society. By scrutinizing the narratives of these two literary works, we aim to shed light on the multifaceted consequences of scientific progress and innovation in the context of WWII.