As the plot continues, the audience begins to learn more about the way the protagonist, Said Mahran, acts. In addition, the characterization of Rauf Ilwan develops in this chapter, as we learn more about the relationship between these two characters.
With the plot’s progression, comes the understanding of the way that Said feels towards his nemeses, Nabawiyya, Ilish and his newest adversary Rauf Ilwan. The main character does not seem capable of forgiving these people for their actions, especially Rauf, even though he shows compassion and sympathy towards him. While reflecting on his raid on his prior mentor’s house, Said states that “it [will] be a rich venture, indeed, and one to give an emphatic reply to the treachery of a lifetime.” (pg. 183) Here we can assume that Said feels as if Rauf’s actions of abandonment and refusal to acknowledge the past are more treacherous acts, than the ones committed by Nabawiyya and Ilish! I believe that at this point in the novel, I began to turn away from pitying Said’s misfortunes, and started to be disgusted by his actions. The relationship between the reader and the protagonist begins to spiral downwards at this point in the plot.
This chapter introduces the idea that Said could actually be the guilty one, losing the support from the readers. This is emphasized by the fact that Said robbed the home of Rauf Ilwan, even though his previous mentor had been trying to help him. In chapter three, Rauf hands over “two five-pound notes.” (pg. 180) This sympathetic gesture was a catalyst, in suggesting that Rauf feels compassion for the main character.
Tags: Rauf Ilwan, Said Mahran
