NCHS AP English Language

Ishmael's Archetypes

"It is quite certain, however, that man is born with a certain functioning, a certain way of functioning, a certain pattern of behavior which is expressed in the form of archetypal images, or archetypal forms."

The above quote is a reference to what Carl Jung's view of archetypal behavior is. In Moby Dick, Ishmael's actions imply that he believes he is an outsider. He appears to be very timid and unwilling to "take the bull by the horns". For example, he tells Queequeg that he is sure he is unable to choose a suitable ship for the journey. It also seems as though he believes that merely getting to himself to Nantucket for whaling was a feat in and of itself. This feeling of insecurity and inferiority is consistent with the "outsider" mindset or archetype. While others on the ship are very loud, rambunctious, overly confident, and very much in the "inside", Ishmael offsets them with his timid behavior. The hesitant actions stemming from his underlying insecurity allow others to have the same view of Ishmael that he has of himself. The way in which others start to perceive him perpetuates his feelings of inadequacy. It is a sort of "circle of perception". This type of inner perception, furthered by the opinions of others, draws directly from the definition of archetypal behavior.
-Lisa Elizondo

posted by Lisa @ 2:04 PM