"Fifth Business" is a novel by Canadian author Robertson Davies, first published in 1970. The book is the first in a trilogy known as The Deptford Trilogy, and it explores themes of guilt, identity, and the nature of reality.
The story is narrated by Dunstan Ramsay, a retired schoolteacher who looks back on his life and reflects on the events that shaped his character. Dunstan's life is intertwined with that of his childhood friend, Percy Boyd "Boy" Staunton, who becomes a successful businessman and politician.
The novel centers around an event that occurs in the small town of Deptford, Ontario, during a snowball fight when Dunstan throws a snowball at Boy that contains a rock. The rock hits Boy in the head and causes him to fall unconscious, which leads to a chain of events that have significant consequences for all involved.
As Dunstan tries to come to terms with his guilt over the incident, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that takes him from Canada to Europe and eventually to a small village in Switzerland. Along the way, he meets a range of eccentric characters and explores his own identity as a "fifth business" figure, a term used in the theatre to describe a minor character who plays a crucial role in the plot.
Through Dunstan's reflections, "Fifth Business" explores the idea of the "mythical method," a literary technique that combines elements of myth, psychology, and symbolism. The novel also examines the role of religion in shaping individual identity and explores the tension between personal ambition and social obligation.
Overall, "Fifth Business" is a complex and thought-provoking novel that offers a rich exploration of human psychology and the nature of reality. It has been widely praised for its intricate plot, vivid characterization, and insightful commentary on the human condition.
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