Comparing and Contrasting the narrator and his "other self", Leggatt, in "The Secret Sharer" by Joseph Conrad

In The Secret Sharer (TSS), Leggatt and the narrator initially appear almost identical, physically and mentally, as well as experience and background-wise, that Leggatt could be the narrator’s “other self”. Also, Leggatt and narrator share a similar attitude towards society’s code of conduct and great courage that allows them to be true to their own moral values. However, through the story, despite their superficial similarities, alike intellect and morality, Leggatt is revealed to be emotionally more mature, having admirable qualities that the narrator lacks.

Leggatt and the narrator share common physical features, both “young” in their twenties and with a similar physical build, such that the narrator’s sleeping suit was “just right” for Leggatt. Delving beneath mere physical features, they also shared a similar educational background, both being “Conway boys” and possessing a high level of intelligence...