Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Gregory Markham

Markham makes for an odd ObiWan Kenobi-type character. A bit forthright and altogether American in his humor, he lacks the solemnity and accent one generally associates with the role. He brings two qualities to the table, though, that make him the perfect guide/mentor character.

The first is his ability to guide everyone through the scientific difficulties. When people have questions about the complex scientific mathematics and theories surrounding Renfrew's experiment, Markham is their man. He explains how paradoxes work to Peterson, and he helps Marjorie's dinner guests understand the relativity of scientific knowledge. When he dies, Renfrew even laments that there is no longer any way to understand the impact of his transmissions to the past.

The second is Markham's beard. Every self-respecting (male) mentor character needs to come with a sagacious, well-defined beard. It really helps you feel the oomph of his thoughts.