What role do superstitions and omens play in "Moby Dick"?
In Melville's "Moby Dick," superstitions and omens play an essential role in the
story's development. The sailors aboard the Pequod are highly superstitious
and believe that the omens and signs will determine their fate. Their
superstitions stem from their belief in beings or spirits controlling the natural
world, resulting in supernatural events determining the outcome of their
voyage. The superstitions and omens are essential in the story because they
shape the characters' behavior and the events of the story.
One of the most significant examples that demonstrate the importance of
superstitions in the story is the appearance of the white whale, Moby Dick.
Captain Ahab perceives the appearance of the whale as a sign that he must
pursue it relentlessly. This belief in the whale's supernatural nature makes
Captain Ahab place revenge over his crew's welfare, making him a tragic hero
in the story.
Moreover, the novel depicts several superstitions that the sailors hold, which
influence their behavior. For example, the sailors believe that spotting a
particular bird will bring good luck and that wearing a shark's tooth necklace
will protect them from danger. These beliefs demonstrate the sailors'
susceptibility to folklore, which highlights the power of superstitions in shaping
their behavior.
In conclusion, "Moby Dick" demonstrates the powerful role of superstitions
and omens in shaping the story's events and characters. It shows how one's
belief in supernatural powers can influence a person's choices and behaviors.
References:
Melville, H. (1851). Moby-Dick, or, The Whale. London, England: Harper & Brothers.
McWilliams, J. (2018). Superstition and Science in Herman Melville's Moby-Dick. The
Journal of the Texas A&M Association of Former Students, 58-63.