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In this passage, within Fifth Business, Robertson Davies shows us the developing
theme of heroism through masks and archetypes. Davis uses heroism as an example of
archetypes within the book. His tone allows for him to be serious, however still tell a
story that makes the reader question Dunnys psyche. Dunny has several struggles that
allow him to grow; however, he still does not think he fits the criteria of a hero.
Robertson Davies uses the psychology principles proposed by Carl Jung to defend the
masks of heroism. Through the character Dunstan Ramsey, Davies reveals the faults of
society and its constant need of a hero, regardless of whether this iconic hero is
hero. He is being displayed as a hero by receiving recognition and medals. Even after all
of this, he does not think he should be one. Jung psyche principles teach that society
needs a hero. This causes Dunstan to imagine the ideal characteristic of a hero.
Carl Jungs ideas are that a hero is needed for a society, no matter the
qualifications. This causes Dunstan to question whether he fits the role of a hero .
Davies portrays this in his work by justifying Dunstan for wanting to be a hero in order
to fulfil society. Even though he does not feel that he is a hero, society says there needs
doesn't much matter, because people seem to need heroes; so long as I dont lose sight
of the truth, it might as well be me as anyone else. This depicts the ideology of people
needing heroes and as long as they are truthful they can be heroes, including characters
like Dunstan. Dunstan is wearing the heroic mask for the benefit of society not for
himself.
when comparing Dunstan looking into the kings eye to a hero. There was a moment,
however, when the King and I were looking directly into each others eyes, and in that
instant I had a revelation that takes much longer to explain than to experience. Here I
am, I reflected, being decorated as a hero; but I know that my heroic act was rather a
dirty job I did when I was dreadfully frightened; I could just as easily have muddled it
and been ingloriously killed. Dunstan explains how anyone could have been a hero it
does not have to be him. Dunstan argues that he is more fifth business rather than a
hero.
Davies novel accurately portrays Jung beliefs of heroism. Jung beliefs consists
that society needs heroes. The passage shows how Dunstan looks at these beliefs and
realizes if anyone can be a hero, he can too. Dunstan was not being a hero for himself he
was being a hero for society. As he feels the need to submit to the demands of society,