How does Dunstan’s view of death evolve throughout the novel?

Dunstan's view of death evolves significantly throughout "Fifth Business." Initially, he holds a somewhat simplistic understanding of death, viewing it largely in terms of loss and fear. However, as the novel progresses, his experiences and relationships lead him to adopt a more complex and nuanced perspective.

Dunstan's encounters with various characters, particularly those who have different beliefs and experiences regarding death, contribute to this developed understanding. He interacts with people like the mystic Leola, who offers a different interpretation of life and death, and this exposure causes him to reflect on his own beliefs. Through these reflections, he begins to appreciate the multifaceted nature of death—not just as an end, but as part of life’s cycle, intertwined with concepts of memory, legacy, and the impact of one's life on others.

This evolution signifies a deeper acceptance of death as an inevitability that should be faced with an appreciation for life itself, rather than with fear or disregard. Consequently, the journey that Dunstan undertakes throughout the novel illustrates a profound personal growth regarding how he perceives and relates to the concept of death.