Fifth Business Dunny Quotes

The strong hold women have in society is often underestimated and disregarded especially in early years. In the novel Fifth Business the author makes a feminist criticism by providing women in the novel great influence on the plot, contrary to the society at the time. The influence of second wave feminism on the role of women is referenced through the fundamental impact of the female characters on their male counterparts in the nature of their relationships, beliefs and life decisions. Although the role of women in the development of the plot is seen through the eyes of Dunny. The author uses Dunny's development through the novel to further magnify the strong influence of women.

Firstly, one of the women that is seen to have great influence on the kind relationships forged by those close to her specifically the men around

In the novel we witness the religious influence of Mrs. Ramsay on Dunny when later Dunstan works to overcome his inner turmoil through the study of Catholic saints an interesting choice given his strict Baptist and feelings of guilt towards another female character in the novel. This goes to show that although Dunny does not mention particular affirmation of his faith, part of his choice to overcome a psychological turmoil through the study of faith is due to the influence of his household specifically his mom. Mrs Ramsay’s religious influence goes further as some would say that Dunny’s upbringing by his mother influenced his moral compass immensely. Morality and religion are often intertwined and as such living in Deptford a quite religious town and being influenced by a mother more than eager to comment on religious values strengthened Dunny’s moral compass and subsequently intensified his guilt. Religious influence aside, Fiona Ramsay’s relationship tone was a factor