The Reluctant Fundamentalist- Characters

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Discuss 3 characters who affect the life of Changez throughout The Reluctant Fundamentalist. In which ways do they affect him? Throughout Mohsin Hamid’s The Reluctant Fundamentalist, protagonist Changez encounters a variety of characters who significantly alter his life experience. When meeting Erica for the first time, Changez knows in his gut that she’s going to play an important role, and he was right- riding a rollercoaster of emotions and changes. Secondly, Changez’s managing director at Underwood Samson, Jim, is described as similar to Changez in several ways and these similarities are the building blocks for their relationship as the story progresses. Thirdly, Juan-Bautista, the manager of a bookshop in Valparaiso, recognises Changez’s troubles and influences a defining moment in Changez’s story. Erica’s influence on Changez and his feelings are arguably the most highlighted aspects of Changez’s development. This is instantly apparent when he meets Erica for the first time- even then, he’s describing her as ‘stunningly regal’, and before he even begins to speak to her, Changez becomes jealous of locals acting pretentiously for her attention. Additionally, he’s so overcome with obsession and affection for Erica that the significance of her dead lover, Chris, towards her goes unnoticed. Changez appears to ignore Erica’s lack of desire when attempting to have sex with her, such is his desire. Despite everything, they do form a tight bond, albeit a very one-sided affair with Changez desperately wishing for Erica to sort herself out... even wanting to shout at her, ‘he’s dead!’ Yet ultimately, Erica’s significance on Changez is for all the wrong reasons right up till her supposed suicide, when Changez is preoccupied in Valparaiso. The novel also hints at the importance of Jim, Changez’s superior, and how he brings a determination in Changez that’s unrivalled

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