blog




  • Essay / The Effects of Other Characters on the Protagonist of The Fifth Business

    Table of ContentsIntroductionMrs. Ramsay: The ShadowDiana Marfleet: The AnimusLiesl Vitzliputzli: The SelfConclusionIntroductionRobertson Davies' novel "Fifth Business" delves into the complex development of its protagonist, Dunstan Ramsay, through a lens deeply rooted in Jungian psychology. In this essay, we will explore how the concept of individuation, as conceptualized by Jungian analyst Anthony Stevens, plays a central role in the formation of Dunstan's character. Applying Jungian theory of individuation to Perrine's character analysis ideas, we will closely examine Dunstan's transformation as he moves through the complex tapestry of life. Say no to plagiarism. Get a custom essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”?Get the original essayMrs. Ramsay: The ShadowOur journey into Dunstan's individuation begins with his mother, Mrs. Ramsay. She exudes a multifaceted personality that is best revealed through the concept of indirect characterization of Perrine: her personality is revealed through her actions and dialogues. Mrs. Ramsay is portrayed as a determined and strict mother, initially focused on Dunstan's well-being. However, an important change took place with the arrival of Paul Dempster. This transformation is especially evident after the infamous snowball incident. Dunstan reflects: "I began to believe that I was more responsible for Paul Dempster's birth than his parents... Part of this terrible fate would undoubtedly be my mother's rejection." "These words illustrate the change in Mrs. Ramsay's affection, which now gravitates towards Paul, leaving Dunstan yearning for her attention. This maternal change contributes significantly to Dunstan's early individuation process, the shadow phase. This lays the groundwork for his inability to connect with women, an unconscious aspect of his personality that eludes his personal identity Additionally, it is crucial to delve deeper into the specific scenes that highlight this transformation. For example, when the. Dunstan's mother begins to favor Paul over him, the reader witnesses the emotional turmoil Dunstan experiences. His feelings of rejection, inadequacy, and bitterness arise from this pivotal moment. These feelings become an integral part of his life. ghost self, hiding beneath the surface of his conscious identity and impacting his relationships throughout his life Diana Marfleet: The AnimusDiana Marfleet, Dunstan's first love and sexual partner, becomes a central figure in his journey of. individuation. Our introduction to Diana takes place during Dunstan's wartime period, when she nurses him back to health. As their relationship evolves from friendship to romantic, we witness Diana's transformative influence. Diana's act of renaming Dunstan, suggesting that "Dumbledum Ramsay" will never succeed, signifies Dunstan's rebirth. As Diana first guides him into a new chapter in life, his character can be best understood through Perrine's concept of direct characterization: his personality is revealed through the observations and comments of the other characters. Diana is depicted as both loving and controlling, ultimately taking on a maternal role in Dunstan's life. Dunstan's observation: "She was too much of a mother to me, and as I had a mother and lost her, I was in no hurry to acquire another", illustrates Diana's contribution to the Dunstan's individuation, particularly the animus phase, his maternal behavior inadvertently reveals dormant aspects of Dunstan's animosity, bringing him closer to self-realization...