What irony exists in Dunstan’s perception of himself versus how others view him?

Dunstan's perception of himself as ordinary while others view him as extraordinary highlights a significant irony in "Fifth Business." Throughout his life, Dunstan Ramsay grapples with feelings of inadequacy and believes he leads a mundane existence. However, those around him often regard his experiences, insights, and the roles he plays in the lives of others as remarkable and profound.

This contradiction emphasizes the concept of self-perception versus external perception, showcasing the complexity of Dunstan’s character. He feels disconnected from a sense of achievement or uniqueness despite having a substantial impact on the community and the individuals in his life. This irony serves to illustrate broader themes in the novel regarding identity, the nature of greatness, and the pivotal roles that individuals can play in the narratives of others, even when they themselves do not see their value.

The other options do not capture the specific dynamic between Dunstan's self-image and the views of others in the same way. They address different aspects of perception but do not aptly convey the fundamental irony encapsulated in Dunstan feeling commonplace while being perceived as extraordinary by those around him.