Where Fayrüz Agha's character functions as an icon of servitude in a traditional family, Khalïfa's character actually articulates and explains the tradition. Khalïfa is the true son of Egypt, connected to his peo- ple in a way undreamed of by the wretched servant Fayrüz Agha.

Eve M. Troutt Powell, A Different Shade of Coloni…, loc. 1002