What is Dunstan's profession and how does it relate to his character?

Dunstan's profession as a teacher and historian aligns closely with his character and personal journey throughout "Fifth Business." Teaching not only allows him to impart knowledge to others, but it also reflects his own lifelong quest for understanding and meaning in a complex world. His role as a historian emphasizes his interest in the past, exploring how history shapes individual lives and cultural identities. This connection to history is central to Dunstan's development as a character, as he seeks to unravel the threads of his own life story and those of others, including the impact of events like the snowball incident that significantly influenced his relationships and sense of self.

His profession also mirrors his introspective nature and reflects a deep engagement with the themes of memory, fame, and the importance of storytelling, which are pivotal in the narrative. As he teaches and communicates historical tales, he simultaneously grapples with his own identity and the broader human experience, illustrating the intertwining of personal and shared histories that characterizes much of the novel.