An Analysis of
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Stubb Kills a Whale
An Analysis of Chapter 61
Tone
The Chapter Has A Contemplative And Dreamy Tone At The Beginning Which Shifts To An Intense, Frenetic, And Ultimately Grim Tone As The Whale Hunt Takes Place.
Basic Stats
| Intensity | Clarity | Conflict | Resolution | Pacing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heart-pounding - (5) | Clear - (4) | Hostile - (4) | Complete - (5) | Fast-paced - (5) |
Basically...
Stubb successfully harpoons and kills a sperm whale after the Pequod's crew is roused from a drowsy state induced by the calm sea.
In more detail...
Chapter 61 depicts a slain sperm whale after a lethargic day at sea. It begins with the Pequod's crew nearly mesmerized into slumber by the still ocean, with the watchmen drowsily swaying atop the masts. The narrator, atop the foremast, experiences a near-out-of-body state before snapping to alertness upon sighting a sperm whale. Captain Ahab and the crew spring into action, silently chasing the creature to avoid detection. Stubb, one of the mates, takes charge and encourages his boat crew in the hunt. As the chase escalates, Stubb cheerleads with wild cries while navigating the tumultuous pursuit. Eventually, Stubb's well-targeted harpoon strikes the whale. Despite the suffering creature's violent struggle, the experienced seamen manage to subdue and kill it. Stubb marks the victory by smoking his pipe, symbolizing the whale's last 'smoke'.
Characters
- Stubb
- About - Stubb, the second mate of the Pequod, showcases his harpoon skills by successfully killing a sperm whale after rousing the crew from drowsiness to an eager hunt.
- Personality Traits - Demonstrates leadership, determination, and skilled harpooneering; unflappable and resolute in the pursuit; appears to relish the hunt with a blend of casual demeanor and intense focus.
- Physical Characteristics - Stubb is not physically described in this specific chapter.
- Character Connections
- Ahab - Stubb follows Captain Ahab's orders to chase and hunt the whale.
- Ahab
- About - Captain Ahab commands the chase of the whale, showing keen observation and decisiveness. Despite his gruff and imposing demeanor, he participates actively in the hunt.
- Personality Traits - He is authoritative, focused, and driven by an obsession with the pursuit of whales, particularly Moby Dick.
- Physical Characteristics - Ahab's physical characteristics are not described in this chapter, but from previous depictions, he has a brooding presence and an ivory leg.
- Character Connections
- Stubb - Ahab leads Stubb and the rest of the crew in the whale hunt.