NCHS AP English Language

Women- Patrick Collins

In both the movie and the book there are virtually no women present throughout the story line. This is partly due to the fact that the book was written in the 1800's and women did not have many rights, and were considered inferior. Melville probablly just didn't include them because they were just not involved in whaling, which was the central theme of the novel. Another reason for the omission of women could be because Melville wanted to further emphasize the importance of making a profit on the Pequod's voyage. It would be very hard for the men to concentrate on whales if there were women on board distracting them. Melville also wanted to enhance Ahab's monomaniac attitude in which he is focused on one thing (Moby Dick), and one thing only.

Patrick Collins

posted by NCHS AP English Language III @ 8:41 PM