Guilt In Fifth Business

1155 Words5 Pages
Guilt Robertson Davies Fifth Business There is one human emotion that can be paralyzing, lead to the act lying both to ones self and others, to take action that we do not like, and to cripple any rational thought processes. It is self perpetuating if allowed to get out of control. Its side effects are either anger, aggressiveness or fear and reclusiveness. It's symptoms are irrational behavior, lying, anguish, lack of self-esteem, and in extreme cases, thoughts of suicide. It is guilt. In Robert Davies Fifth Business guilt is portrayed by many characters, and as shown can have a negative impact in their life's. Born at the turn of the twentieth century, Dustan is maimed in World War I, he is awarded a Victoria Cross, and devotes his life to the study of saints and myths, spending time with scholars. The guilt felt by Dunstan altered the way he lives through his complete devotion for Mary Dempster. Dunstan’s guilt is the result of his religious upbringing. This guilt is caused by Percy Boyd Staunton when he throws the snowball that hits Mrs Dempster, resulting in her madness and Paul’s premature birth. All actions have consequences. Sometimes one does not have to be involved in the action, but only be related, and the wrongful act committed can have serious consequences for everyone. The consequence, or lack of consequence, is determined by one’s upbringing. Guilt can only be suppressed for a limited time before it comes out in unwanted ways. This is clearly the case present in Robertson Davies’ Fifth Business. Although Boy committed the crime, Dunstan feels a profound sense of guilt about the snowball incident. On the other hand, Boy obliterates his guilt. Guilt and lack of guilt can be contrasted through character’s lives, relationships and philosophies. Dustan and Boy's awkward relationship plays a major role in the elements that make Fifth Business

More about Guilt In Fifth Business

Open Document