Character Relationship Map: Submarine

Characters

• Jack Dorgan (played by Jack Holt) — protagonist

  A skilled U.S. Navy deep-sea diver and close friend of Bob Mason. After impulsively marrying Bessie, he feels betrayed when she begins an affair with Bob. He ultimately overcomes his bitterness to div...

• Bob Mason (played by Ralph Graves) — supporting

  A U.S. Navy petty officer and Jack's close friend. He risked his life to save Jack from a bomb earlier. Transferred to submarine duty, he has an affair with Bessie. When his sub sinks, he attempts sui...

Story Dynamics

Alliances, conflicts, and narrative interactions that evolve throughout the story.

• Jack Dorgan → Bob Mason (Social Close Friends) — Their personal friendship is the emotional foundation of the story.

  The plot identifies Jack Dorgan and Bob Mason as close pals whose friendship survives dangerous work, separation, and apparent betrayal.

Story Analysis

A Navy friendship survives danger, separation, betrayal, and guilt through a final act of selfless rescue.

Plot Progression

1. Bomb Beneath The Harbor — Jack Dorgan and Bob Mason work dangerous naval duties in a foreign port. Bob Mason proves his loyalty by saving Jack Dorgan from a live bomb.
2. Marriage Against The Current — Separated by naval assignments, Jack Dorgan enters a marriage after meeting someone in San Diego. His wish for domestic calm soon clashes with a continuing attraction to nightlife.
3. Friendship Under Suspicion — Bob Mason arrives with a submarine squadron and begins an affair without knowing the woman's marriage. Jack Dorgan discovers the situation and mistakes Bob Mason's conduct for deliberate betrayal.
4. The Abyss Calls — Bob Mason becomes trapped after his submarine sinks. Jack Dorgan must confront his resentment and accept the dangerous descent only he can make.
5. Oxygen In The Darkness — Jack Dorgan contacts the trapped submarine, survives Bob Mason's despair, and connects the oxygen lines. Their friendship is restored after the rescue.