In Ray Bradbury's "Dark They Were, and Golden-Eyed," Mr. Bittering undergoes a significant transformation in his attitude towards Mars. Initially, he is filled with fear and resistance to the Martian environment. His apprehension is fueled by a sense of homesickness and an attachment to Earth, as well as a deep-rooted belief that Mars is an alien and threatening place.
As the story progresses, however, Mr. Bittering's character begins to change. He starts to adapt to his new surroundings, and his fear slowly evolves into a kind of acceptance. The influence of the Martian environment gradually alters his perspective, leading him to embrace the changes happening around him and within himself. The Martian atmosphere begins to reshape his identity, leading to a newfound sense of belonging.
By the end of the text, Mr. Bittering’s character has shifted from one of resistance to acceptance. He no longer yearns for Earth and seems to embrace his transformation, including the physical changes he undergoes. This change signifies a deeper theme of the story, reflecting on adaptability and the concept of home, suggesting that identity is malleable and influenced by our environment.
In summary, Mr. Bittering's transformation from fear and homesickness to acceptance and belonging illustrates a profound change in his character and highlights the story's exploration of human adaptability in the face of new and foreign experiences.