What incident marks the beginning of Dunstan Ramsay's journey of self-discovery?

The snowball incident is a pivotal moment in Dunstan Ramsay's journey of self-discovery in "Fifth Business." This event occurs during his childhood when he is struck in the eye by a snowball thrown by his schoolmate, Boy Staunton, which inadvertently leads to the death of a woman named Mrs. Dempster, a local figure perceived as a saintly but marginalized character. This incident profoundly influences Dunstan, making him feel responsible for Mrs. Dempster's fate and leading him to explore themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of saints.

The impact of this moment goes beyond the immediate physical consequences; it triggers a lifetime of reflection for Dunstan, as he grapples with his feelings of guilt and his evolving understanding of morality and human complexity. This experience sets the stage for his later attempts to reconcile his past, navigate his relationships, and ultimately seek his identity in a world filled with paradoxes.

In contrast, the other options, while potentially significant moments in life, do not carry the same weight of consequence and introspection that the snowball incident does for Dunstan. A car accident or a family crisis might present challenges, but they do not encapsulate the thematic concerns of personal guilt and revelation that