Ferdinand Bardamu

Bardamu is humorous, curious and intelligent. Bardamu as a young man is impetuous and adventurous. Yet, in spite of his open and gregarious nature and his wicked sense of humor, Bardamu generally remains an outsider, because of his refusal to identify with any group or nation. From this perspective on the outside, he sees all too clearly the flaws of every institution and ideology that he questions. Bardamu quickly spots people's weak or deceitful points, but even more quickly acknowledges when a person is truly good or honest. Bardamu most respects those who know their own mind and show no pretenses or hypocrisy in public. Bardamu's hopes and dreams are unrealistic and plentiful and he is often disappointed.

After becoming a doctor and thus obtaining a more respectable social position, Bardamu shows more patience with his fellow man. Bardamu combines an analytical perspective with real empathy for...