NCHS AP English Language

An outsider and archetypes

Questia.com describes Jungian archetypes as image schemes which are experienced in non-verbal, implicit and embodied ways, rather than as pre-existing fully fledged symbolic meanings waiting to be activated. It is basically the framework that a person fits into that defines their personality and motives. The archetypes of Ishmael could include inexperienced, reflective, somewhat easily distracted/fascinated, cautious, and some might even call him gloomy while he's not at sea. Near the beginning of the book, he describes his soul as a “drizzly November”.
Ishmael's most important archetype is that of the outsider. He views everyone as an outsider and not really part of the group. You only know characters through his limited point of view. He knows nothing of whaling, yet he seeks out to join a group of professional whalers. He thinks that maybe by doing something he’s never done before, something new and exciting, that he might be able to fit in more. Little does Ishmael know that he can never fit in because his archetype is that of the outsider. He was made to not fit in.
Although Ishmael befriends the cannibal Queequeg, his new friend is also an outsider. Queequeg is also an experienced harpooner and can actually fit in with some of the others to an extent. He knows the trade but most avoid him because of his strange demeanor, looks, and heritage.
Someone with Ishmaelian archetypes would have characteristics similar to the ones I have named and would not be able to fit in with a certain group. They would most likely be distant and judgmental because of their inadequate perspective of others. They would seek out new experiences to try to fit in, but would never be able to. It would be in the Ishmaelian archetype to be alone.

Michelle Snider

posted by Ellen @ 6:01 PM