In the novel, The Thief and the Dogs, Mahfouz uses characters surrounding the protagonist, Said Mahran, in order to further develop his character. Sheikh al Junaydi is among these characters that reflect and expand on elements of Said’s personality. He has always had an influence on Said’s life, as he attended his sessions with his father in his childhood. This influence is carried with Said and shapes him, causing Rauf to complain that the Sheikh’s sessions were a waste of time. However, the Sheikh is generally a good character within the novel, providing Said with a shelter and point of reference in times of hardship. Further, the Sheikh always aimed to help Said become a better person and to change his ways. Said clearly trusts the Sheikh and values his opinions heavily, as he sees him as a source of education. He represents a light in Said’s life during his times of hardship and Said often remembers him when he is passing through difficult. His ideas have ultimately become an integral part of Said’s character, and it is almost as though Said seeks the Sheikh’s approval in everything he does.
The Sheikh is a character that often provides Said with chances to become a better person, and is ready to give him help and support. This ties into the theme of fate and free will as it emphasises Said’s responsibility in his downfall. It is difficult to pinpoint whether Said’s collapse is a result of fate or his free will. However, the presence of a mentor such as the Sheikh and his constant support for Said allows us to understand the extent of Said’s freewill. Despite this support, Said’s pride is too overpowering and cannot defeat his thirst for revenge. As a result, the role of Said’s free will is emphasised when identifying the source of his downfall. However, the Sheikh plays a deeper role than that, as he brings out a different side to Said. His often brutal honestly causes Said to consider his actions and evaluate the impact of his actions. This helps in the characterization of Said and brings out another side of him that is not often seen.
Additionally, the Sheikh is a character that represents elements of Said's character, namely his self-reflection and want for education. Being a Sufi Sheikh, he delves into the spiritual side of religion and encourages self-discovery. However, he also aims to direct Said towards what is right, causing Said to often question his morals and actions when he remembers the Sheikh and his words. This can be connected to the character of Sanaa, who is another person which brings out this side of Said.
Additionally, the Sheikh is a character that represents elements of Said's character, namely his self-reflection and want for education. Being a Sufi Sheikh, he delves into the spiritual side of religion and encourages self-discovery. However, he also aims to direct Said towards what is right, causing Said to often question his morals and actions when he remembers the Sheikh and his words. This can be connected to the character of Sanaa, who is another person which brings out this side of Said.