Throughout the novel Fifth Business by Robertson Davies, the protagonist, Dunstan Ramsay, maintains a periodic relationship with Mary Dempster. Davies, who was highly influenced by Jungian Archetypes, introduces them in her character, identify her as "The Fool Saint". Examples of this are found reformed the tramp Joel Surgeoner, tried saving Willie Ramsay by bringing him back to life briefly, and appeared to be an illusion when Dunstan was hurt. From the moment Mary Dempster is introduced in the first part the novel, it is clear there was a development of being civil. Mary Dempster does not look what she appears to be after the birth of Paul Dempster, but she shows her moralistic side between right and wrong. To be helpless is what influenced her characteristics. As Mary progresses through the novel, she establishes why she had sex with Joel, "he was very civil and he wanted it so bad" (41). In a way, this quote is foreshadowing Mary Dempster is still going to be alone and helpless as she grows older. However, her actions become more appealing to Dunstable. .
As Mary Dempster progresses through the novel, she considers to shows her religious character. This really reveals about more of her character, indicating she can be the modest woman. Dunstable's brother Willie was unconscious and about to die; however, he decides to get Mary Dempster to help instead of Dr. McCausland. She then prays for Willie's helpless body, and he comes back to life momentarily, "Willie moved his legs a little, I fainted. When I came around, Mrs. Dempster was sitting on Willie's bed, talking quietly and cheerfully to him, and he was replying, weakly but eagerly" (54). Mary Dempster took the power of her religious side to resurrect Willie. She had no intentions for curiosity, but just to help another civil to another human. She's not the best Christian, but she tries to make the best decisions she can, and this appears to be the second miracle to Dunstan his brother came back to life momentarily.
