An Analysis of Herman Melville's
Moby Dick

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The Ramadan

An Analysis of Chapter 17

Tone

Respectful, Concerned, Dramatic, Humorous

Basic Stats

Intensity Clarity Conflict Resolution Pacing
Thrilling - (4) Crystal-clear - (5) There's some - (3) A lot - (4) Quick - (4)

Basically...

Ishmael respects Queequeg's religious observance of a day-long fast during Ramadan but grows concerned when he doesn't respond from his room, prompting a dramatic entry to find him peaceful and undisturbed.

In more detail...

Ishmael opts not to disturb Queequeg during his fasting for Ramadan, out of respect for his religious practices. As evening approaches, Ishmael grows concerned when Queequeg doesn't respond from behind his locked door, causing fear that Queequeg may have suffered a medical emergency. After a frenzied attempt to enter the room with the landlord's help, Ishmael finds Queequeg calmly meditating. Despite their differences in belief, Ishmael accepts Queequeg's practices and the two prepare to leave for their voyage after Queequeg breaks his fast.
Characters
  • Ishmael
    • About - Ishmael displays respect towards Queequeg's religious practices but becomes alarmed when Queequeg doesn't respond or leave his room. His actions show deep concern for his friend, and he demonstrates considerable determination in ensuring Queequeg's well-being.
    • Personality Traits - Respectful, concerned, open-minded, determined, contemplative
    • Physical Characteristics - Description of physical traits isn't highlighted in this chapter for Ishmael.
    • Character Connections
      • Queequeg - Ishmael is a close companion, who showcases his deep concern for Queequeg's health when he does not emerge from his room.
      • Mrs. Hussey - Ishmael interacts with Mrs. Hussey in a state of panic, demonstrating his urgency to help Queequeg.
  • Queequeg
    • About - Queequeg spends the day in spiritual observance, fasting and meditating, causing concern to Ishmael. Despite Ishmael's later attempts to reason with him about his rituals, Queequeg remains silent and unresponsive, demonstrating his deep commitment to his beliefs.
    • Personality Traits - Stoic, pious, committed to his beliefs, enigmatic
    • Physical Characteristics - Queequeg's physical appearance is not detailed in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Ishmael - Queequeg is Ishmael's friend, but he remains unresponsive to Ishmael's attempts to communicate during his fast.
  • Mrs. Hussey
    • About - Mrs. Hussey is the landlady of the Spouter-Inn, who initially reacts to Ishmael's concerns with skepticism and is later involved in the effort to check on Queequeg.
    • Personality Traits - Practical, responsive to a crisis although a little skeptical initially
    • Physical Characteristics - There is no detailed description of her physical traits in this chapter.
    • Character Connections
      • Ishmael - Mrs. Hussey becomes involved with Ishmael's concerns for Queequeg's welfare and helps to access Queequeg's locked room.
      • Queequeg - She aids in resolving the issue of Queequeg being locked in his room.