Lord Jim · Character
Tamb' Itam
A dark-faced Malay from the north, once a Rajah's forced paddler, now Jim's morose, fanatically devoted servant and headman of his household.
supporting
Also known as Tamb, Itam, Meantime Tamb ' Itam, Tambt' Itam
First appearance: xxi
As a supporting figure in Lord Jim, Tamb' Itam is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.
Implied as part of Jim's household, though not directly named in this excerpt.
Free preview opens at this moment — character cards, Character Web, and themes sit beside the text as you read.
Tamb' Itam attached himself to Jim after escaping Rajah Allang's service, and his devotion runs to something excessive, almost fanatical, like a shadow that will not be shaken. He treads on his master's heels at state…
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The fuller portrait of Tamb' Itam sits in Reading Lens — open the free preview to keep reading with notes on the page.
See Tamb' Itam in xxiCharacter Web
9 connectionsA slice of how Tamb' Itam sits in the book — open the reader for the full interactive map.
Relationship types
- Professional
- Other
Character groups
- Patusan Conflict Catalysts
- Protagonist
+4 more in the full Character Web
Open in readerNarrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this passage, the emotional and psychological peak occurs when the narrator confronts Jewel’s raw, irration…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingRelationships
- Jim
professional · positive
Tamb' Itam is Jim's loyal servant and confidant, faithfully serving him in Patusan until… How this plays out →
- Jim
professional · positive
Tamb' Itam is Jim's loyal servant and confidant, faithfully serving him in Patusan until… How this plays out →
- Jim
professional · positive
Tamb' Itam is Jim's loyal servant and confidant, faithfully serving him in Patusan until… How this plays out →
Relationship notes
How these ties play out is in the reading companion — open the free preview.
See Tamb' Itam in xxiIn the story
Tamb' Itam appears across 11 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.
Chapter companion notes
Spoil-light check-ins for Tamb' Itam unlock in the free preview.
See Tamb' Itam in xxi