How does the theme of mortality tie into "Moby Dick"?
The theme of mortality is prevalent throughout "Moby Dick." From the opening
pages, the narrator Ishmael reflects on death and refers to the sea as a burial
ground. The characters on board the Pequod are all aware that they may not
return from hunting the white whale, and the constant presence of death
amplifies their determination to succeed.
Captain Ahab's obsession with Moby Dick also ties into the theme of mortality,
as he sees the whale as a symbol of his own mortality and attempts to
conquer it in order to achieve immortality. His speeches and actions reflect
this desperation, showcasing his increasing madness as he becomes
consumed by his quest.
Additionally, the novel explores the concept of legacy and the fear of being
forgotten after death. Ishmael's inclusion of whale anatomy and other scientific
details highlights the inevitability of death and decay, as even the largest and
most powerful creatures are not exempt from mortality.
Overall, the theme of mortality adds depth and weight to the characters'
actions and motives throughout "Moby Dick," emphasizing the fragility and
impermanence of life.
References:
- Melville, Herman. "Moby Dick." 1851.
- Knights, L. C. "Shakespeare, The Bible, and 'Moby-Dick'." The Sewanee Review, vol. 56,
no. 2, 1948, pp. 181–196. JSTOR, www.jstor.org/stable/27534337.