NCHS AP English Language

Ch. 3 Analysis

Ishmael enters the Spouter-Inn and notices an interesting painting. The painting depicts a wintry scene that seems to come alive. There seems to be a gigantic creature or fish. He references the leviathan which is Hebrew for whale and used to describe a large sea monster in the Old Testament. He says the picture represents a ship sailing around Cape Horn during a hurricane. Also in the inn, Ishmael finds various kinds of weaponry. In the corner is a bar which slightly resembles a whale's head. Later, a reference is made about Jonah, the Biblical character who is swallowed by a whale. He finds a group of sailors who intricately carve the bones of whales. He speaks to the innkeeper to see if there is any room for him. There is not any room for him but the innkeeper says he could share a bed with a harpooneer. Initially, Ishmael would if there were no other options. Later, he decides against the offer and opts to sleep on a bench in the common area. The landlord tries to make the bench comfortable but all attempts are in vain. He then decides to stay with the harpooner. He learns that the harpooner will be late because he is out selling shrunken heads. Ishmael decides to go to bed before the harpooner arrives. The harpooner, Queequeg, comes in and starts getting ready for bed. Ishmael observes that Queequg is covered in s. The harpooner does not notice that Ishmael is in the room. Queequeg then seems to perform some kind of spiritual ritual. Then, Queequeg starts to get into bed and notices Ishmael. Ishmael is frightened and calls for the landlord. The landlord explains to Queequeg who Ishmael is and why is there. Queequeg becomes hospitable and politely invites Ishmael back into the bed. He then concludes that it will be safe to sleep with Queequeg despite the fact that he is a cannibal, and goes as far to say the it is "better to sleep with a sober cannibal than a drunken Christian."

Catherine Samson & Jessica Huff

posted by NCHS AP English Language III @ 1:49 PM