The Sheikh

In the novel 'The Thief and the Dogs,' the protagonist, Said Mahran, is portrayed as a criminal. He walks out of prison, after being jailed for four years. He waited for the moment that he could seek revenge against those who betrayed him. He was a man of evil intentions. Yet, in the midst of these wrong doings, Naguib Mahfouz introduces a degree of morality within the duration of the novel. This morality is represented by Sheikh Ali Al-Junaydi, Saids late fathers spiritual advisor. If anything, this character is the moral voice of the novel, overflowing with wisdom. He is very religious, and is identified as a Sufi Muslim. His character and dialogue suggest his faith within the pages of the novel, as well as his peaceful and meditative nature. 

His first interaction with Said is immediate proof of the personality the Sheikh possesses. His first words to Said: "peace and Gods compassion be upon you." After realising that Said required food and shelter, the Sheikh proceeds to give Said advice for the strengthening of his Muslim faith. "Take a copy of the Qur'an and read...Also repeat the words: 'Love is acceptance, which means obeying His commands and refraining from what He has prohibited and contentment with what He decrees and ordains.'" 

Had Said been more open minded in his approach, he may have considered the Sheikhs suggestion and may not have killed an innocent man at the door of Ilishs old apartment. However, he is unable to accept the moral guidance of the Sheikh, and continues, through his free will, to pave the way to his own downfall. After the killing, Said visits the Sheikh again, and ignores the morning prayer of the Sheikhs followers, and instead falls asleep. The Sheikh notices. "You've had a long sleep, but you know no rest...your burning heart yearns for shade, but continues forward under the fire of the sun."

These are a few examples of the wisdom that the Sheikh possesses as the novels voice of morality. He speaks of and advises Said constantly to carry out actions that are considered ethically correct. Perhaps the Sheikh is the only opportunity for Said to escape his fate. However, he fails to comprehend the sheer wisdom that the Sheikh has, and proceeds to murder another. After the killings outside Ilishs and Raufs homes, the sympathy of the public begins to fade. This is how ignoring the advice of the Sheikh contributed greatly to his downfall, as through failing to listen, he failed to change his fate while he could.

Thus, the Sheikh contributes to the theme of fate vs. free-will. He's role in the novel highlights Saids flaw, and how his own free-will may have set his path to self destruction. He also further characterises Said as a tragic hero, while Saids rejection of moral advice emphasises on his imperfections, and his ignorance results in his end.