The Magistrate's Identity In 'Waiting For The Barbarians'

768 Words2 Pages

In physics, quantum entanglement posits that certain subatomic particles always exist in paired states; electrons act dependently upon one another, ‘spinning’ in opposite directions. However, things get curiously interesting when one attempts to observe these spins. According to theory, the two interacting electrons will only have opposite spins once observed — that is, witnessed by an individual outside the realm of entangled particles. Like the observed electron, people are also entangled with others, and based on the perceptions of those that they interact with, they are capable of assuming a role that fits with their ‘observed’ identity. The perception of others (whether it is society, a friend, stranger, or loved one) can have a profound …show more content…

However, when he becomes involved with a barbarian girl, their perception of him changes and he is viewed as a traitor and an outsider. The Magistrate’s identity is formed on the basis of his position in relation to his community, so when their view of him changes, so does he. It leads to a conflict between his loyalty to the empire and his own goals, leading to fragmentation and a lack of cultural belonging. Near the end of the novel, the Magistrate says: “This is not the scene I dreamed of. Like much else nowadays I leave it feeling stupid, like a man who lost his way long ago but presses on along a road that may lead nowhere” (Coetzee 156). The Magistrate’s desire to retain the approval of his countrymen comes into conflict with his desire to protect the barbarian girl, creating inner turmoil and reshaping his identity. The moral dissent caused by the Magistrate’s peers influence him greatly, masking his true sense of self. However in the end, the Magistrate’s true identity wins out against the sway of the others, as expressed by his sense of liberal guilt. This shows that one’s identity can be greatly influenced by others perception of us, but ultimately, one’s actual identity will steer an individual towards the road they are meant to

Open Document