Book Review 19 - Moby-Dick or, The Whale by Herman Melville

Book Review 19 - Moby-Dick or, The Whale by Herman Melville 

Title: Moby-Dick; or, The Whale. Author: Herman Melville. Publication Details: First published in 1851 by Harper & Brothers (United States) and Richard Bentley (United Kingdom). Genre: Adventure fiction, maritime literature, epic, philosophical novel. 

Introduction

Moby-Dick is a literary classic that has secured its place as one of the most important works in American literature. Written by Herman Melville, the novel was initially overlooked and misunderstood by contemporary readers but has since been recognized for its profound exploration of human existence, obsession and the relationship between man and nature. Its intricate narrative and philosophical depth make it a staple of academic study and a challenging yet rewarding read. 

Summary of the Plot

The novel centers on the experiences of Ishmael, a sailor who joins the whaling ship Pequod under the command of Captain Ahab. The journey quickly turns into more than a routine whaling expedition as Ahab reveals his true intent: to hunt and kill Moby Dick, the legendary white whale that previously maimed him by biting off his leg. The story follows the crew’s dangerous voyage across the seas in pursuit of Moby Dick, with tension building as Ahab’s obsession grows more maniacal. The plot culminates in a dramatic and tragic showdown between Ahab and the whale, leaving the Pequod destroyed and Ishmael as the sole survivor. 

Analysis of Themes

Moby-Dick delves deeply into several themes, chief among them: 

Obsession: Captain Ahab’s all-consuming obsession with killing Moby Dick serves as the central driving force of the narrative. His relentless pursuit reflects the destructive nature of obsession, which blinds him to the dangers he imposes on himself and others. 

Man vs. Nature: The novel explores humanity’s struggle to control and conquer nature, embodied by the elusive and seemingly indestructible whale. Moby Dick is a force of nature that symbolizes the futility of human attempts to dominate the natural world. 

Fate and Free Will: Throughout the story, Melville raises existential questions about the role of fate in human life. Ahab believes he is destined to confront Moby Dick, while others aboard the ship question whether they can alter their fates or are bound to follow a predetermined course. 

Isolation and Brotherhood: Life at sea emphasizes both the physical and emotional isolation of individuals, while moments of camaraderie and shared labor among the crew reflect a fragile brotherhood. Ishmael’s reflections on isolation and community underscore the novel’s exploration of human connection. 

Style and Structure

1. Narrative Style

Melville employs a mix of narrative techniques, primarily through Ishmael’s first-person perspective but frequently shifting to a more omniscient voice. The narrative includes lengthy digressions on various topics, from the anatomy of whales to philosophical reflections on life, making the book a blend of adventure, encyclopedia and philosophical treatise. The structure is non-linear and many chapters serve to build thematic depth rather than advance the plot, which gives the novel a multifaceted, layered quality. 

2. Language and Tone

Melville’s language is both poetic and archaic, filled with rich symbolism, metaphor and allusions to biblical and classical texts. The tone of the novel oscillates between darkly philosophical, humorous and tragic, often mirroring the psychological states of the characters. His descriptions of the sea and the whale are majestic, giving the novel an epic, almost mythological atmosphere. The prose, while beautiful, can be dense and challenging, requiring close attention from readers. 

Critical Evaluation

1. Strengths

One of the primary strengths of Moby-Dick is its thematic richness. The novel’s exploration of human obsession, fate and the limits of knowledge are profound and timeless. Melville’s use of symbolism, particularly in the character of Moby Dick, provides multiple layers of interpretation. The philosophical depth of the novel invites readers to reflect on existential questions, making it a rewarding text for close analysis. 

Melville’s characterization, especially of Captain Ahab and Ishmael, is another strength. Ahab’s descent into madness and obsession is both tragic and compelling, while Ishmael’s reflective, philosophical nature provides a counterbalance to the intensity of the narrative. 

2. Weaknesses

The novel’s digressions into cetology (the study of whales) and its philosophical musings, while thematically relevant, often slow the pace of the plot. For readers more interested in the adventure aspects of the story, these chapters may seem like unnecessary interruptions. Additionally, the archaic and highly symbolic language can be difficult to parse, making the novel a challenging read, particularly for those unfamiliar with Melville’s style. 

Another potential weakness is the novel’s lack of conventional plot structure. The central action— Ahab’s pursuit of Moby Dick— is frequently overshadowed by lengthy thematic explorations, which may alienate readers who prefer a more straightforward narrative. 

Conclusion

Moby-Dick is a monumental work of literature that tackles fundamental human questions about obsession, fate and our relationship with the natural world. While its challenging narrative style and complex themes may not appeal to every reader, those who are willing to engage with the text will find it a richly rewarding experience. Melville’s exploration of the human condition, combined with his poetic language and philosophical depth, makes Moby-Dick a novel that continues to captivate and inspire readers over a century after its publication. 

References

Melville, Herman. Moby-Dick; or, The Whale. Harper & Brothers, 1851.

Bloom, Harold, ed. Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick. Chelsea House, 1996.

Delbanco, Andrew. Melville: His World and Work. Knopf, 2005. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the significance of Moby Dick in the novel?

Moby Dick, the white whale, symbolizes the immense, untamable forces of nature and the unknown, as well as Captain Ahab’s obsession and humanity’s struggle to understand or control life’s mysteries. 

Why is Moby-Dick considered a difficult read?

The novel's digressions into whaling, philosophical reflections and Melville’s dense, archaic prose can make it challenging for readers, requiring careful and patient reading. 

What are the major themes of Moby-Dick?

Major themes include obsession, man versus nature, fate and free will, and the isolation of individuals juxtaposed with the bonds of brotherhood. 

How does Moby-Dick explore the concept of fate?

The novel questions whether humans are controlled by fate or have the power of free will, especially through Ahab’s belief that his confrontation with Moby Dick is preordained.