What does Dunstan's experience in the military contribute to his character development?

Dunstan Ramsay's experiences in the military significantly reinforce his guilt and sense of duty, which profoundly shape his character development throughout the novel. His time in World War I acts as a crucible for his psychological and emotional struggles. Dunstan grapples with the guilt stemming from the circumstances surrounding the death of his friend, Paul Dempsey, and his sense of responsibility towards those around him. This inner conflict intensifies as he confronts the devastating realities of war, which then shapes his moral compass and deepens his resolve to fulfill perceived obligations.

His military service also serves to solidify his introspective nature, compelling him to reflect on existential questions about life, death, and the implications of one's actions. Thus, it does not simply act as a background event but intricately weaves into the thematic fabric of guilt, duty, and the quest for redemption that are central to Dunstan's journey. The continued dominance of these themes is what makes this aspect of his military experience crucial to understanding his character arc.

In contrast, the other options overlook the profound implications of his military experience on his psyche and moral development. For instance, suggesting it has no significant impact dismisses the foundational role these feelings of guilt and duty play in his life