In terms of character transformations, there are several characters who have been examples of such a phenomenon. To this point, the prime witness of these transformations has been Salim; however, while he mentally notes the progression and gradual transformation of his fellow acquaintances, it should also be noted, that Salim as a person has begun to undergo a metamorphosis.
Aside from the Salim's gradual rate of progression from a coastal dweller, to a trader, there is the obvious choice for this subject matter: Zabeth.
Initially, Zabeth is mentioned as a trader, who keeps solely to her status as a marchande, but later with the inquiry of her distinct "smell", it is discovered that Zabeth is a practicer of witchcraft; furthermore, there is the mention of a son, Ferdinand. All of these discoveries, as well as transformations, from a woman of business, to a sorceress, and finally a mother, further develop Zabeth's character, they are solidifying qualities which make concrete a personality. They are definitive; hence, accomplishing Zabeth as an individual with many facets.
In Salim's case; however, there is a fluidity. Yes, he has definitely transformed, for there are several examples of this. One such example is his diversion from a traditional Muslim upbringing, which has obviously been diluted by his own references to sipping lager and Portuguese wines at his new situation, as well as his several dalliances with local women, which he with much difficulty dissembles. Despite these elements, Salim's transformations are a subtle set, for he is still fluid, experimenting, mending, never at an extreme end of the spectrum of change.
Whereas Salim is adapting to a new place, new people, another character who parallels his situation is Ferdinand. While Salim is confronting his new freedom, his ability to provide for himself, be responsible for a business as well as a caretaker for Metty, there is Ferdinand's transformation, his constant battle of altering both mental and physical qualities, which are affected by influences from both political aspects, as well as cultural ones. As a young student at the local lycee, it is quite clear via the text that Ferdinand is attempting to seek a balance between the cultural and the political, for he is attempting to be accepted, but the difficulty asserts itself with acknowledgement of his efforts. As an example, his mannerisms, body language, sporting his blazer, all possess a sense of experimentation, seeking a comfort level, which ultimately fails, for when the violent outburst occurs via political turmoil, Ferdinand immediately brings forth his cultural inheritance of bewildered, panicked, African style of anxiety mode. As a result, it is clear the Ferdinand is attempting to adapt and mold himself for the hierarchal authority, while Salim slowly incorporates smaller elements of transformations, adding to his existing identity, without diminishing his original sense of individualism. He is almost at an equilibrium.
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