Fifth Business Setting & Symbolism

Fifth Business Objects/Places

Deptford

Deptford is the quaint, old-fashioned Canadian village at the heart of this novel by Robertson Davies. Including Fifth Business, author Davies wrote three books centered on Deptford, which is reminiscent of his own childhood home. The village of Deptford has many of the sterling, moral characteristics associated with small-town living. However, in its heart lurks much darkness and evil as well, which the narrator explores throughout the novel. No matter how far from Deptford life takes protagonist Dunstan Ramsay, he is always called back in spirit to revisit the joys and the follies of his youth.

Colborne College

Colborne College is the name of the private men's college where Dunstan Ramsay spends his long teaching career. During the Second World War, Dunstan serves as acting Headmaster. Boy Staunton got his degree from Colborne, and later, as a prominent businessman, serves on the Board of Directors, making him, in effect, Dunstan's boss.

A Hundred Saints for Travelers