How does the relationship between Dunstan and his parents shape his identity?

The relationship between Dunstan Ramsay and his parents significantly impacts his identity, primarily by instilling feelings of guilt and obligation that influence his actions throughout the narrative. Dunstan grows up in a household where the expectations of his parents weigh heavily on him. His mother, in particular, embodies a sense of religious piety and places great importance on duty and sacrifice, which fosters within Dunstan a complex emotional landscape filled with guilt and the pressure to conform to familial expectations.

This internal conflict shapes Dunstan's choices and motivations as an adult. For instance, he often finds himself torn between his personal desires and the perceived needs of others, illustrating how deeply his upbringing affects his perception of self-worth and responsibility. Dunstan's artistic pursuits and relationships are often tinged with this sense of obligation, leading him to grapple with his identity in relation to his family and their values.

In contrast, the other options suggest that the relationship has either minimal impact or encourages independence or guilt-free artistic expression, which overlooks the core thematic elements in the novel related to obligation and the complexity of familial ties. By emphasizing the interplay of guilt and obligation within Dunstan's identity, we gain a deeper understanding of his character's development and the broader themes of the novel.