Is Rufus really just a product of his environment?
When Dana first meets Rufus as a child in Kindred, he appears to be innocent and naive, a victim of his harsh father and the society he was born into. Dana initially sees Rufus as a vulnerable child in need of guidance and protection from the harsh realities of the antebellum South, so she attempts to teach lessons of empathy, morality, and fairness to him, hoping to shape him into a more compassionate and just individual. Initially, Dana's efforts seem to have some positive impact on Rufus. He forms a genuine bond with her, viewing her as a confidante and ally. Dana, in turn, feels a sense of responsibility towards Rufus, recognizing the potential for change and redemption within him. Unfortunately, as Rufus grows older, Dana's attempts to guide him in the right direction start to backfire. Despite her best efforts to influence him positively, Rufus begins to exhibit more and more selfish, entitled, and morally compromised behavior. Although Dana isn’t necessarily a