The Sheikh:
§ Although the sheikh himself does not develop through the novel, he helps provide options for Said, this helps in driving the plot along, Said makes the decisions based on his options (and personal bias)
§ The sheikh puts Said’s emotions into words “ you had a long sleep, but you know no rest” (p209)
§ “the world is unaware of him who is unaware of it” (209) – another example of how the Sheikh puts Said’s emotions into words, creates a better understanding of the psychological state of the character
§ Provides contrast to the rest of the novel, shows the difference between Said in his actions and the Sheikh, and shows how the Sheikh provides “the other option”
§ The Sheikh’s nature is based on the following of Sufi Islam. “known for peaceful, meditative nature”
§ Connection to Said’s past and his father, “he told him his name was Said Mahran, son of Amm Mahran, his old disciple, and reminded him of the old days” (p207), provides a back story into the character. “carrying him back to a distant, gentle time of childhood, dreams, a loving father, and his own innocent yearning” (p162)
§ Said’s views him and his place as a form of food and shelter, a place of safety were he can be pardoned in this world for the things he has done “you seek a roof not and answer” (p166)
§ Provides a mystical approach, a mystical shelter, even when he is not asked of it
§ Said can confess his wrong doings and verbalize his thoughts to the Sheikh “Said handed him the revolver, explaining that every missing bullet meant a murder, but the sheikh insisted on seeing his card” (p208)
Tags: Sheikh
