NCHS AP English Language

TOTAL DOMINATION PART 8- Starbuck's Soliloquy

6. Chapter 38, Starbuck's soliloquy. What is the central trope that Melville employs and why is it appropriate?

In Chapter 38, the central trope, or idea, is the comparison of Moby Dick to a demigorgon, a demonic type being. It seems as though Moby Dick pervades every aspect of what goes on in the ship, almost to the point that everyone is possessed by him, like a demon. For Starbuck to use this metaphor is highly appropriate because of the fixation on Moby Dick on the Pequod.

posted by Lisa @ 3:07 PM