An Analysis of
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The Monkey-Rope
An Analysis of Chapter 72
Tone
Reflective, Perilous, Darkly Comical
Basic Stats
| Intensity | Clarity | Conflict | Resolution | Pacing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thrilling - (4) | Crystal-clear - (5) | Hostile - (4) | A little - (2) | Quick - (4) |
Basically...
While cutting-in the whale, Ishmael describes the hazardous work of Queequeg as he balances on the whale's back, connected to Ishmael by the 'monkey-rope,' highlighting the shared fate and comradeship of the whaling crew.
In more detail...
Chapter 72 details the precarious endeavor of cutting-in and flensing a whale, with a particular focus on the monkey-rope that tethers Ishmael to Queequeg for safety. Queequeg performs the dangerous task of securing the blubber-hook to the whale, which requires him to balance upon the whale's back while half-submerged in the water. Ishmael, as Queequeg's 'bowsman,' is physically connected to him with the monkey-rope. He reflects on their intertwined fates, contemplating the broader implications of individual agency and collective responsibility. Their work is further complicated by the threat of sharks, eager for the blood of the whale, and the well-meaning, if risky, aid of Tashtego and Daggoo with their whale-spades. The chapter ends with an instance of dark comedy when Stubb derides the steward for offering Queequeg ginger-water instead of the warming spirits usually given to revitalize a harpooneer.
Characters
- Ishmael
- About - The narrator, he describes his role holding the monkey-rope and reflects philosophically on their intertwined fates as he supports Queequeg during the flensing process.
- Personality Traits - Reflective, responsible, philosophical, vigilant.
- Physical Characteristics - Not explicitly described in this chapter.
- Character Connections
- Queequeg - His shipmate, whom he is tethered to by the monkey-rope and feels a profound brotherhood with.
- Queequeg
- About - A skilled harpooneer, he courageously balances on the whale's back while conducting the dangerous task of cutting-in, serves as the primary focus of Ishmael's reflections on the interconnectedness of sailors.
- Personality Traits - Brave, dutiful, and unfazed by the dangers that surround him.
- Physical Characteristics - Described as appearing in 'highland costume,' a strong, imposing figure capable of handling the physical demands of whaling.
- Character Connections
- Ishmael - Connected by the monkey-rope, sharing a significant bond and a mutual dependence during the flensing process.
- Stubb
- About - Stubb's involvement in the chapter highlights his pragmatic attitude and sense of humor, as demonstrated by his ridicule of the steward for offering ginger-water instead of grog to Queequeg.
- Personality Traits - Pragmatic, humorous, critical of foolish actions.
- Physical Characteristics - Not described in this chapter.
- Character Connections
- The Steward - Mocks the steward's decision to offer ginger water to a harpooneer in need of warmth.
- The Steward
- About - He is the subject of mockery after offering Queequeg ginger-water, a decision ridiculed by Stubb as being unfit for a harpooneer just come from the whale.
- Personality Traits - Perceived as overly cautious or misguided in his treatment of a harpooneer.
- Physical Characteristics - Not described in this chapter.
- Character Connections
- Stubb - Receives criticism from Stubb regarding his choice of refreshment for the harpooneer.
- Tashtego
- About - A crew member assisting in the whaling process, Tashtego stands ready with whale-spades to slay any sharks that may threaten Queequeg as he works on the whale.
- Personality Traits - Attentive, protective of crewmates.
- Physical Characteristics - Not described in this chapter.
- Character Connections
- Queequeg - He, alongside Daggoo, is tasked with protecting Queequeg from sharks by using whale-spades.
- Daggoo
- About - Another crew member working with Tashtego to fend off sharks around Queequeg. Daggoo's presence serves as an added layer of security during the dangerous task of cutting-in.
- Personality Traits - Vigilant, serves as a guardian for fellow sailors.
- Physical Characteristics - Not described in this chapter.
- Character Connections
- Queequeg - He, alongside Tashtego, is tasked with protecting Queequeg from sharks by using whale-spades.