Discuss the significance role of the Marlow in Lord Jim

Marlow is the person who serves as narrator for most of the tale. Marlow first speaks in the fifth chapter of the book, when the narration switches from third-person omniscient to first-person narration. Marlow, an old sea captain who features prominently in other Conrad tales, narrates the tale from this point for most of the book, presumably telling Jim's tale as an after-dinner story. When Marlow first meets Jim at the formal inquiry for the Patna incident, he is ready to dislike Jim, thinking that Jim is remorseless for his actions, as his cool demeanor seems to indicate. However, as Marlow gets to know the young man, he realizes that Jim is ashamed of his actions and tormented by guilt. The night before Jim is to be sentenced, Marlow offers Jim money and the chance to run away before his sentencing. Jim declines, not wishing to run. After Jim's commission is revoked, Marlow gives him a second chance by recommending him for a job. Marlow is glad to hear from Jim's employer that Jim is working out well, but he is distressed when he finds out shortly thereafter that Jim has left the job.