How does the theme of fate and free will relate to the events of
"Moby Dick"?
The theme of fate and free will is a significant aspect of "Moby Dick" by
Herman Melville. The novel presents the idea that human beings have the
power to make choices that can change their destiny, but ultimately fate is
impossible to escape. The idea of predestination is reinforced throughout the
novel, particularly in the character of Ahab, who sees himself as being called
by fate to pursue Moby Dick. Despite knowing the risks and potential
consequences of pursuing the white whale, Ahab is unable to resist his urge
to fulfill his destiny.
Furthermore, the novel emphasizes the power of free will through the
character of Ishmael, who makes the decision to join the crew of the Pequod
and ultimately survives the ordeal. The choices made by the other characters
also play a significant role in the events that unfold, suggesting that their free
will has an impact on their fate. However, the novel presents the idea that
even with free will, one's fate may still be predetermined.
Overall, the theme of fate and free will contributes to the complexity of the
novel, highlighting the limitations of human agency in the face of an indifferent
universe.
References:
1. Melville, H. (1851). Moby-Dick, or The Whale.
2. Milder, R. (1988). Fate and free will in Moby-Dick. Studies in the Novel, 20(3), 382-397.
3. Zipperstein, J. (2009). Sociology, literary social criticism, and the question of free will in
Moby-Dick. Leviathan: A Journal of Melville Studies, 11(1), 38-54.