Rudyard Kipling's "The Secret Sharer" explores themes of duality and moral conflict through the story of a nameless captain of a ship who encounters a fugitive sailor. This man, Leggatt, represents the captain's darker side, embodying his hidden fears and desires. As the captain faces his own insecurities about leadership, he finds solace and a sense of solidarity with Leggatt, ultimately helping him escape. This relationship illustrates the complexities of identity and the struggle for self-acceptance in a rigidly hierarchical society.
On the other hand, Joseph Conrad's "The Nigger of the Narcissus" delves into the dynamics of race, duty, and camaraderie among a diverse crew aboard a ship. The narrative centers on the crew's response to a sick black sailor, Jim, and the tensions that arise from their perceptions of him. Conrad highlights themes of colonialism and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the face of societal prejudices. The story reflects the struggles of individuals to maintain their humanity amid challenging circumstances, showcasing both solidarity and bias within a confined space.
Both works engage with the intricacies of human relationships and the moral choices characters face in challenging environments. While Kipling uses a singular relationship to illustrate internal conflict, Conrad presents a broader commentary on race and community. Together, they capture the essence of the human experience aboard a ship, revealing how isolation can lead to introspection and the exploration of one's values and beliefs.