Meeting summary for Great Books KC—Fifth Business, by R. Davies (06/27/2025

Quick recap The group analyzed various characters and themes from multiple novels, focusing on relationships, motivations, and religious elements throughout the trilogy. The discussion concluded with conversations about historical perspectives on women's education and intelligence, as well as reactions to the books' humor and spiritual themes. Next steps All members: Read the next book in Davies' trilogy for the next meeting in a month. Bring prepared question for discussion at the next book club meeting, Summary Book Plot  Before meeting started some of the group discussed the plot of a series of books, focusing on characters and narrative structure across the three volumes.  Robertson Davies Reading Discussion The group discussed reading progress, including the completion of "5th Business" and the current reading of "Manticore" by Robertson Davies. It was noted the differences in covers between editions and shared thoughts on Davies' writing style and the inclusion of an introduction and biography in the newer editions. The group also touched on the use of the term "5th Business" in drama and literature, with Judith confirming its existence in British and Canadian contexts. One person expressed enjoyment of Davies' work and contrasted it with a recent book they found disappointing. Boy Staunton's Tragic Hypnosis The group discussed the ending of the novel involving Boy Staunton's death by driving his car into water, with some proposing that a magician hypnotized him to do so. They analyzed the character's motivations, including his mean behavior towards Ramsey and Mrs. Dempster, and discussed the novel's themes of self-discovery and human nature. The conversation also touched on the author's portrayal of characters and the book's exploration of faith, with one person noting his personal connection to the Catholic themes. Exploring Spiritual Themes in Fiction The group discussed a book about a character named Dunstan who had an intense relationship with a woman who encouraged him to open up and live more fully. They explored themes of spirituality, religion, and magic in the book, noting the author's interest in mysterious and spiritual questions. The discussion touched on the concept of miracles in the story and the author's use of religious and spiritual elements, though not in a traditional sense. Exploring 'The Manticore's' Themes The group discussed Robertson Davies' novel "The Manticore," focusing on its historical and religious themes, particularly the Calvinist influence on Presbyterian traditions. They explored the character development and name changes throughout the trilogy, with one person noting that Dunstan's transformation was symbolic of a second birth rather than rebirth. The participants also praised the author's depiction of World War I trench warfare and discussed the character of Leola Cruikshank's transformation, which some humorously connected to a previous summer reading group. Analyzing Boy Staunton's Complex Nature The group discussed the character Boy Staunton from a book, analyzing his complex personality and actions. They debated whether Boy was genuinely philanthropic or simply manipulative, noting his ability to help others while maintaining his own self-interest. The conversation touched on themes of class, religion, and the book's humor, with particular attention to Boy's interactions with characters like Dunstan and the Anglican Bishop. The discussion concluded with reflections on the character's redemption and the impact of his actions on others. Dunstan's Complex Motherly Relationships The group discussed characters and themes in a book, focusing on Dunstan's relationships with women, particularly his mother and a nurse who cared for him. They explored how Dunstan's perceptions of these relationships influenced his decisions, including his reluctance to marry a woman who had been like a mother figure to him. The conversation also touched on the character of a woman who was initially perceived as unattractive but later revealed more complexity, and the group compared her to characters in other literature. Evolution of Women's Educational Roles The group discussed historical perspectives on women's education and intelligence, with Judith sharing her experiences from Peru where women were traditionally raised to be childlike and uneducated. They examined how women's roles and opportunities have changed over time, particularly through examples like Jane Austen who was educated by her father despite the limited educational options available to women in the 18th century. The discussion concluded with an evaluation of female characters in their novel, with some noting that while some characters like Leola were understandable, they lacked depth in their internal lives. Book Discussion: Humor and Evolution The group discussed their reactions to a book, focusing on its humorous elements and the distinction between religion and spirituality. They debated whether the author, William Davies, had planned the entire trilogy from the start or if it evolved after the success of the first book. The discussion concluded with some uncertainty about the publication dates of the books and a brief mention of Davies' appearance and lack of major literary awards.

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