Moby Dick Summary

Description

Here you will find a Moby Dick summary (Herman Melville's book).
We begin with a summary of the entire book, and then you can read each individual chapter's summary by visiting the links on the "Chapters" section.

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

Chapters

Moby Dick Summary Overview

The story begins with Ishmael, a seasoned sailor with an ambition to experience a whaling voyage. He ends up in New Bedford, Massachusetts and shares a room with Queequeg, a harpooner tattooed from head to toe. Despite initial reservations, they form a bond and choose to venture together on a whaling ship, the Pequod. The ship is ominous, decorated with the remains of sperm whales and owned by two hard-bargaining Quakers, Peleg and Bildad. They speak ominously of the ship's captain, Ahab, a man still recuperating from a previous encounter with a sperm whale that cost him his leg. As the ship sets sail into warmer waters on a frosty Christmas day, the crew encounters an eclectic mix of diverse individuals. Ahab emerges, revealing his intention to hunt the infamous white whale, Moby Dick, who he believes embodies pure evil. He offers a gold doubloon for the first man to sight the beast. As they sail towards Africa, a secret crew led by a man named Fedallah emerges, who Ahab believes will help him capture Moby Dick. Despite seeing several whales, their hunts are unsuccessful. Circling Africa and entering the Indian Ocean, they successfully capture and process a few whales for their oil. Ahab persistently questions every captain they cross about Moby Dick. They meet with various difficulties and ominous warnings, including a prediction of doom from a crazed prophet, Gabriel. Despite these warnings, Ahab's obsession to kill Moby Dick intensifies. They sight and engage Moby Dick, resulting in lost boats and men. On the third day, Ahab is caught in a harpoon line and thrown to his death. Moby Dick then sinks the Pequod, pulling all remaining crewmen under. Only Ishmael survives, floating on Queequeg’s coffin until rescued by another ship, the Rachel.

chapter 1

The tale of Moby-Dick kicks off with the concise declaration, "Call me Ishmael." Ishmael, a mariner, paints a common picture of New York City, emphasizing the crowds of men who spend their leisure time envisioning a life upon the waves. He discloses that his own seafaring journey stemmed from a similar longing for venture, likening his state of mind to a "damp, drizzly November in [his] soul." He consciously avoids expensive or "respectable" travel options, opting to work as an ordinary sailor instead of a passenger.

chapter 2

Ishmael embarks on a journey from New York to New Bedford, Massachusetts, known as the American hub for whaling. His timing is off, and he misses the ferry to Nantucket, the original hotspot for whaling in New England. Despite this setback, he is determined to experience a traditional Nantucket whaling voyage. Meanwhile, he must stay in New Bedford for several nights. He wanders around, in search of affordable lodging, but finds most options too pricey. He briefly enters a church filled with sobbing African Americans, listening to a sermon about “the blackness of darkness,” but leaves quickly. Eventually, he discovers the Spouter-Inn, run by Peter Coffin. The foreboding name of both the inn and its owner matches his current state of mind, plus it appears run-down and likely inexpensive.

chapter 3

Ishmael, at the Spouter-Inn, is intrigued by a mysterious oil painting of a whale attacking a ship and notably ominous weaponry adorning another wall. The fully booked inn forces him to bunk with a "dark complexioned" harpooner, Queequeg. Spending his night in a bar populated by peculiar seafarers, he awaits Queequeg's arrival. Fearful of sharing a bed with an unfamiliar, potentially hazardous man, Ishmael initially chooses a bench for rest. Yet discomfort makes him reconsider sharing the bed with Queequeg, who Coffin vouches for because “he pays reg’lar.” But Ishmael remains anxious as Coffin mentions that Queequeg has come from the South Seas and sells shrunken heads. When Queequeg finally appears, Ishmael observes him from the bed, terrified by his tattoos and his tomahawk pipe. After setting up a small, dark idol for worship, Queequeg spots Ishmael in his bed. He brandishes his tomahawk pipe while Ishmael cries out for Coffin. The situation gets explained, and the pair settle down for the night. Ishmael concludes it's preferable to bunk with a “sober cannibal” than a “drunken Christian.”

chapter 4

Upon awakening, Queequeg's arm is gently draped over Ishmael, as though Ishmael were "his wife." Queequeg proceeds to put on a stylish hat and boots, and uses his harpoon to shave. This prompts Ishmael to ponder over the "savage's understanding of civilized manners."

chapter 5

In the Spouter-Inn, Ishmael finds himself at a breakfast table surrounded by whalers. Contrary to his expectations, their meal lacks the camaraderie of aquatic tales or rowdiness. The men dine in quietude. Queequeg, interestingly, utilizes his harpoon to serve himself an extra portion of meat.

chapter 6

Ishmael roams the streets of New Bedford, fascinated by the unique city and its inhabitants. The seafaring business at the heart of the city draws in sailors from far and wide, ranging from the far-off South Pacific to the isolated peaks of Vermont. The grand houses and elegantly attired women that populate the city are all made possible by the lucrative whaling industry.

chapter 7

Ishmael stumbles upon the Whaleman’s Chapel, a place adorned with plaques in memory of sailors who died or vanished at sea. He contemplates the perplexing message borne by the chapel: if paradise is indeed superior, why do loved ones grieve so profoundly for the deceased? To his astonishment, he discovers Queequeg within the chapel.

chapter 8

A man known as Father Mapple enters the chapel, scaling a rope ladder to reach a pulpit modeled after a ship's bow. Famous among whalers, Mapple's genuineness and the applicability of his sermons to their existence are highly appreciated. Ishmael contemplates the symbolic meaning of the preacher's noticeable ascent into the pulpit.

chapter 9

In his sermon, Mapple draws from the tale of Jonah, who was consumed by "a great fish" - essentially, a whale. Mapple traditionally uses Jonah's narrative to address human sin and intentional violation of God's laws. He believes that the story personally motivates him to uphold God's wishes by "preach[ing] the Truth in the face of Falsehood!" After delivering an emotionally charged sermon, Mapple concludes on his knees, his face buried in his hands, as the congregation departs.

chapter 10

Reflecting on Queequeg’s calm demeanor, Ishmael grows to admire him, believing that a person's true nature can't be concealed behind tattoos or outward appearances. Despite considering Queequeg a barbarian, Ishmael regards him as a primitive version of “George Washington.” Small acts of camaraderie between them help foster a bond. Ishmael appreciates Queequeg's genuine nature, lacking in Christian "empty politeness." Following Queequeg's tribal customs, a shared smoke from the tomahawk pipe symbolizes their “marriage.” Queequeg shares half his possessions with Ishmael, and they continue to sleep in the same bed, engaging in long conversations. Ishmael even partakes in Queequeg's pagan rituals, justifying it by showing respect to Queequeg's beliefs as he would wish the “barbarian” to respect his Christian practices.

chapter 11

Queequeg and Ishmael rouse from sleep during the night. Despite the chilly air, the bed is cozy, made more so by each other's company. They enjoy a shared smoke, during which time Queequeg discloses details of his past.

chapter 12

Queequeg hails from Kokovoko, an uncharted South Pacific island, where he was the prince. However, driven by his curiosity to explore and understand Christianity, he left his home. When a whaling vessel docked at his island, they denied him employment, driving him to sneak aboard. His willful determination eventually secured him a position as a whaler, and he's proved himself a proficient harpooner since then. Despite possibly being the rightful king due to his father's likely demise, Queequeg can't return home. His exposure to Christianity has deemed him inappropriate to take over his homeland’s “pure and undefiled throne.” Hence, Queequeg has replaced his royal scepter with his harpoon, as observed by Ishmael. The pair intend to journey to Nantucket in search of a position on a whaling ship.

chapter 13

Ishmael and Queequeg head to Nantucket, their belongings in a wheelbarrow, raising eyebrows amongst New Bedford locals due to their unlikely camaraderie. Queequeg shares tales with Ishmael about his initial attempt at using a wheelbarrow and an amusing incident involving a white captain at a Kokovoko wedding. En route to Nantucket on a ferry, Queequeg is mocked by a local. In response, Queequeg tosses the man into the air, earning a reprimand from the captain. Soon after, a rope in the ferry's rigging snaps, throwing the mocking local overboard and causing chaos on the ferry. Queequeg leaps into action, stabilizing the ferry by managing the ropes, then dives into the sea to rescue the overboard man, thereby earning admiration from all aboard.

chapter 14

Ishmael briefly shifts his attention to the island of Nantucket, sharing various myths regarding its establishment and intriguing stories from the island's life. He remarks that the Nantucketer claims dominion over the oceans, an expansive "empire" that spans more than half the world, surpassing the size of any terrestrial nation.

chapter 15

Queequeg and Ishmael decide to spend the night at the Try-Pots, a tavern run by a relative of the Spouter-Inn proprietor. The sight of an ancient topmast, which resembles a gallows, unsettles Ishmael. Nantucket's oceanic influence is evident everywhere, even in the fishy flavor of the milk and the innkeeper's wife's fishbone necklace. The duo enjoys a robust chowder for their evening meal.

chapter 16

Under Yojo's instructions, Queequeg's wooden deity, Ishmael chooses the Pequod, an antiquated looking vessel "with an old fashioned claw-footed look about her" and adorned with "pendants of polished ivory”. The Pequod is dubbed a “cannibal of a craft” due to its decoration with whale remnants. He strikes a bargain with Peleg and Bildad, the Quaker owners of the ship, depicted as shrewd penny-pinchers and tough bosses. Despite the Quaker's reputation for peace, these two devote their lives to ruthlessly hunting whales. After deciding on Ishmael's share of the ship’s earnings (his only payment), Peleg grants him the 300th portion. Ishmael discovers that the ship’s captain is Ahab, a man with a name reminiscent of a notorious biblical king. Ahab has become introverted and secretive following the loss of his leg to the infamous white whale, Moby Dick. Despite this, Bildad and Peleg trust in Ahab's skills and consider him harmless, given that he has a young family waiting for him back home.

chapter 17

At the lodging, Ishmael gives Queequeg a day to observe his "Ramadan" rituals, growing anxious when his friend remains behind closed doors at nightfall. Ishmael's worry peaks until he manages to unlock the door, only to find Queequeg engrossed in profound contemplation. Queequeg remains unmoved, continuing his meditation till dawn. Ishmael discusses with Queequeg the unease associated with his faith. Following a hearty morning meal the next day, they make their way back to the Pequod.

chapter 18

Despite initial objections to Queequeg's pagan beliefs, the owners are impressed when he accurately hits a tiny tar spot on the water using a harpoon. They reward him with the ninetieth lay, a higher share than any harpooner from Nantucket has received before. Bildad attempts to influence Queequeg towards Christianity, but Peleg advises him against it saying, "Pious harpooneers never make good voyagers—it takes the shark out of ’em; no harpooneer is worth a straw who ain’t pretty sharkish." He points out to Bildad that, while at sea, pragmatic concerns take precedence over religious ones.

chapter 19

Following their enlistment, Ishmael and Queequeg encounter an eerie, disfigured individual named Elijah. This man, whose presence seems prophetic or simply unnerving, subtly alludes to the potential dangers associated with joining Ahab's crew. He subtly suggests past alarming events linked to Ahab. Despite these veiled hints, Ishmael and Queequeg choose to ignore Elijah's cautionary advice.

chapter 20

The vessel is stocked for the forthcoming journey over a few days. News of Ahab's healing circulates; his recovery from a lost leg is ongoing. Despite this, Ishmael and Queequeg haven't encountered the enigmatic captain yet.

chapter 21

As day breaks, Ishmael observes some sailors getting on the Pequod and assumes the vessel will start its journey at dawn. He and Queequeg run into Elijah once more before they embark. Elijah queries Ishmael if he noticed "anything looking like men" getting on the ship. Ishmael confirms that he did. Yet, the ship is eerily calm except for an old seaman who tells them the captain is already on board. With the sun's ascent, the rest of the Pequod's crew shows up and readies the ship for sailing.

chapter 22

On a freezing Christmas Day, the Pequod departs Nantucket. The vessel is guided out of the pier by Bildad and Peleg, while Ahab remains out of sight. Ishmael is unsettled as the journey begins, contemplating his predicament when he gets a stern reprimand and a kick from Peleg. The whaling ship quickly escapes the confines of the harbor, entering the vast open sea. With the ship heading into the "lone Atlantic," Bildad and Peleg return to land in a smaller boat.

chapter 23

Ishmael gives a short description of Bulkington, a seafarer he initially encounters in New Bedford. Observing Bulkington at the helm of the Pequod, Ishmael perceives him as an untiring explorer, doomed to perish on the ocean. To Ishmael, such a death is far superior to a life wasted in fear. In a hypothetical speech to Bulkington, Ishmael ensures that his end in the marine expanses would elevate him to a divine status.

chapter 24

Ishmael passionately champions the whaling trade, asserting its importance both economically and in the enhancement of geographical understanding. He argues for the prestige of the industry, referencing the engagement of aristocratic families, the mention of whales in the Bible and other literature, and the inclusion of Cetus, the whale, in the constellation of the southern hemisphere. He concludes by attributing any potential achievements he may have to his experiences aboard a whaling vessel, his own version of "Yale College" and "Harvard."

chapter 25

Ishmael expands on the prior chapter's conjectures, emphasizing that the oil from sperm whales is employed during the crowning of monarchs. He hints that this specific oil might have been chosen for such important rituals due to its superior quality, purity, and aroma.

chapter 26

The initial “Knights and Squires” chapter introduces us to Starbuck, the first mate. A sensible and dependable individual from Nantucket, Starbuck deems dread of whales both logical and crucial. His deep respect for nature makes him somewhat superstitious. His fellow Pequod officers describe him as "careful", a term with a relative meaning in the whaling profession. Discussing Starbuck makes Ishmael contemplate the nobility of laborers. He sees signs of God in even the most humble seamen and often turns a blind eye to their flaws, preferring to highlight their "democratic dignity."

chapter 27

The remaining officers of the Pequod are introduced in this section. Stubb, the second mate from Cape Cod, is eternally unruffled and often seen with a pipe, exhibiting an irreverent cheerfulness. Flask, the third mate hailing from Tisbury on Martha’s Vineyard, is short and stout with a combative nature, showing no respect for the majesty of the whale, earning him the nickname “King-Post.” These mates lead the small boats used in whaling, each having their own harpooner: Starbuck's harpooner is Queequeg, Stubb's is an unadulterated Indian from Gay Head, Martha’s Vineyard named Tashtego, and Flask’s is Daggoo, a tall, intimidating African man. Ishmael points out that while the officers are predominantly American, the rest of the crew is an international mix. He says, “the native American liberally provides the brains, the rest of the world as generously supplies the muscles.” Ishmael also notes the unity among the crew, or "Isolatoes," as they are bonded by their collective experiences and risks at sea. Among these is Pip, a destitute black boy from Alabama who is often seen playing a tambourine on board.

chapter 28

The Pequod ventures further into the southern waters, benefiting from improved weather conditions. Ahab, the ship's captain, makes his first appearance on deck. He presents a formidable figure, marred by the physical and psychological injuries inflicted by Moby Dick. Aside from a missing leg, a stark white scar, resembling a lightning bolt, decorates one side of his face. Gossips suggest that this mysterious scar appeared during a violent storm at sea. Ahab's artificial leg, hewn from a whale's jawbone, is anchored in a specially drilled hole on the deck as he keeps watch.

chapter 29

The psychological instability of Ahab is evident. He controls the ship with an iron fist. His unease is shown by his constant movement on the deck, his prosthetic limb reverberating across the ship. Stubb voices discontent about Ahab's incessant pacing, leading to Ahab likening him to a canine and advancing menacingly, causing Stubb to back off. The chapter, as the theatrical title suggests, is concise and filled with drama.

chapter 30

Ahab comes to the conclusion that the calming effect of smoking has ceased to comfort him, and the tranquil nature of the pastime no longer fits his restless and obstinate mental disposition. He impulsively throws his pipe into the sea and continues to stride back and forth on the ship's deck.

chapter 31

Stubb shares with Flask the next day about a dream where Ahab, with his ivory leg, kicked him. A merman in the dream highlighted the uselessness of resisting Ahab and implied that it might be a privilege to be kicked by him. The chapter title, “Queen Mab,” takes inspiration from Romeo and Juliet, a Shakespearean tragedy where Mercutio describes how fairy Queen Mab brings dreams to those asleep. As Stubb wraps up his dream recount, Ahab orders the crew to watch out for whales. Thus, the Pequod's mission commences.

chapter 32

"Cetology" is defined by Ishmael as the study of whales. This, along with other scientific-focused segments in the novel, involves Ishmael trying to categorize whales using scientific principles. He refers to various academic works on whales, suggesting that his classification method could be improved by others. Instead of adopting the already existing Linnaean classification system of family, genus, and species during Melville's era, Ishmael categorizes whales into three separate "books": the Folio, Octavo, and Duodecimo, each having its own "chapters".

chapter 33

Initially, Ishmael shares some facts about the evolving position of the specksynder, traditionally the main harpooner and captain. He then delves into the dynamics of leadership aboard the ship. Ishmael points out that the reliance on each other for successful hunting and thus earning causes its own form of discipline. He also highlights that a whaling ship is not as rank-structured as other ships. However, many captains do like to display their authority. Ahab, on the other hand, doesn't showcase his dominance, despite being capable of acting as a despot. Ishmael confesses that understanding Ahab's uniqueness requires one to “dive . . . for [it] in the deep”.

chapter 34

The narrative demonstrates the stern atmosphere during the ship crew's meal times. Ahab, the ship's captain, supervises the silent, strictly scheduled dinners. Once the officers have eaten, the harpooners claim the table, their hunger terrorizing the cook. The cabin, a representation of Ahab himself, maintains an uneasy aura since he is perceived as "inaccessible," and "an alien." It's not a welcoming space for anyone else.

chapter 35

Ishmael gives an account of his initial role as a masthead lookout for whales aboard the ship. He takes us through the history and significance of mastheads in the whaling industry, alluding to statues, hermits, and ancient Egyptians as previous 'mast-head standers.' He notes the considerable time whalers spend on the masthead and mourns its minimal comforts, particularly on South Seas vessels, where only two tiny pegs are provided for standing. This, he contrasts with other vessels that come equipped with tiny cabins at the top of their masts. Ishmael confesses his tendency to daydream, which interferes with his watch duty. He cautions ship captains about employing "romantic, melancholy, and absent-minded young men," as they are prone to overlook nearby whales.

chapter 36

Ahab finally addresses his crew, firing them up with questions about their objective, to which they reply as one. He brings forth a Spanish gold coin, declaring, “Whosoever of ye raises me a white-headed whale with a wrinkled brow and a crooked jaw . . . he shall have this gold ounce, my boys!” The crowd roars in approval, and the harpooners question if Moby Dick is Ahab’s target. Ahab admits to Starbuck’s inquiry that Moby Dick was the whale that took his leg, and he declares his intention to hunt it down. The crew pledges to join Ahab in his mission, although Starbuck objects, stating he “came here to hunt whales, not [his] commander’s vengeance.” Ahab initiates a bonding ceremony among the crew by having everyone drink from a communal flask. Instructing the harpooners to cross their lances in front of him, Ahab touches the weapons and blesses Queequeg, Tashtego, and Daggoo as “my three pagan kinsmen there—yon three most honorable gentlemen and noble men.” He then has them remove the iron from their harpoons to serve as drinking vessels. They all drink in unison as Ahab proclaims, “God hunt us all, if we do not hunt Moby Dick to his death!”

chapter 37

The scene unfolds with Ahab in solitude near a window, immersed in a sorrowful monologue. He acknowledges the common belief of his insanity, partially agreeing with it. He refers to himself as “demoniac” and “madness maddened.” He discloses a prophecy of his dismemberment by a whale. Despite this, he asserts he will be the “prophet” and the “fulfiller” of Moby Dick’s fate. Accepting the unevenness of the impending confrontation, he defies Moby Dick, asserting that the whale cannot escape its destiny: “The path to my fixed purpose is laid with iron rails, whereon my soul is grooved to run.”

chapter 38

"Evening" chronicles Starbuck's soliloquy. His apprehensions suggest a disastrous outcome, yet he finds himself irrevocably tied to Ahab, driven to aid him in achieving "his impious end." The celebratory noise from the crew's living quarters triggers within him a mourning for the ill-fated expedition and the "latent horror" in existence.

chapter 39

"First Night-Watch" captures Stubb's solitary discourse, granting a fresh viewpoint on the journey. Stubb, convinced that everything is "predestinated," responds with nothing but laughter and a lively tune.

chapter 40

The section titled "Midnight, Forecastle" is penned akin to a theatre script, depicting sailors of diverse origins jesting and humming in unison. Conflict arises as a Spaniard mocks Daggoo, but a brewing storm quells their dispute and forces them to attend to the vessel. Pip implores the "big white God", potentially Ahab or the divine, to "have mercy on this small black boy."

chapter 41

Ishmael reflects on the rising intrigue about Moby Dick among seafarers, sparked by the increasing number of whale attacks. The sailors, clouded by superstition, are starting to believe that these attacks carry an eerie intelligence, almost supernatural. Moby Dick, in particular, is shrouded in wild speculation, hinting at his omnipresence and immortality. Ishmael believes a grain of truth lies hidden in every rumor. As an example, he points out the astonishing speed at which whales can migrate from the Atlantic to the Pacific, making it feasible for a whale in the Pacific to harbor the harpoons of a Greenland vessel. Moby Dick’s consistent evasion of capture and his apparent “intelligent malignity” further fuels these rumors. Ishmael then reveals how Ahab lost his leg to Moby Dick. Ahab had tried to fight the whale with a knife after his boats were destroyed, but being far from land, the medical aid available was meager. The immense physical and mental trauma endured by Ahab during the return journey to Nantucket, Ishmael conjectures, must have been the ignition for his mania and his unyielding obsession with annihilating the whale.

chapter 42

Ishmael expresses how Moby Dick's whiteness alarmed him during their sea journey. He starts by talking about how the color white is often associated with purity, nobleness, and racial dominance. Yet, he feels the color intensifies the fear when linked to any entity that's inherently horrifying, like a shark or a polar bear.

chapter 43

A succinct, tense exchange unfolds between a pair of mariners standing guard. One sailor believes he's detected a sound resembling a person's voice emanating from the cargo area. However, his counterpart hears nothing. Remembering the murmurs of Stubb and the others about an enigmatic traveler residing in the cargo compartment, the first sailor reminds his colleague about this.

chapter 44

Ishmael narrates Ahab's efforts to find Moby Dick. Ahab is confident that he can determine the whale's location by tracking the currents the beast might use to find food. He also knows that Moby Dick has a pattern of appearing in a specific location at the same time annually. Ahab's obsessive pursuit sometimes causes him to have explosive episodes of near-insane screaming. According to Ishmael, these outbursts might be what's left of Ahab's soul trying to break free from his deranged mind.

chapter 45

Ishmael admits that his tale might sound unbelievable thus far, and presents a few arguments from personal encounters and literary references to support his account. He initially highlights how each whale is unique and how often these creatures endure human attacks. Next, he ponders why individuals may doubt such narratives - possibly, they're unaware of the risks and thrilling exploits typical of whaling. He requests from his readers to employ "human reasoning" while assessing his story, instead of interpreting it as a "hideous and intolerable allegory."

chapter 46

Ishmael ponders on Ahab's strategy for seeking vengeance. To keep his crew faithful throughout the extensive maritime journey, Ahab must be strategic. He understands that emotional appeal has its limits and monetary incentives are more dependable. Ahab is also conscious that his actions could be seen as "usurpation" since he redefined the voyage's goal from its original intention set by the ship's proprietors. He is aware that he must relentlessly chase every sperm whale they encounter to prevent his crew from overthrowing his command.

chapter 47

Ishmael paints a picture of the calm and dreamlike state on the vessel when no whale chase is underway. He and Queequeg are occupied with creating a sword-mat, which Ishmael compares to operating on “the Loom of Time”. He talks about the weave's base threads being fixed like destiny, while man's choices are represented by the cross-threads he can weave into this predetermined structure. Queequeg's sword striking the loom, changing the pattern, is seen as luck by Ishmael. His musings are interrupted by Tashtego sighting a whale, triggering immediate activity for the ensuing whale chase. As the crew is about to embark on the hunt in their harpoon boats, Ahab is suddenly surrounded by “five dusky phantoms”.

chapter 48

The crew sets off the harpoon boats for the initial time on this journey, revealing Ahab’s covert crew who were hidden in the ship's hold. They board the captain’s boat under the leadership of Fedallah, a mysterious figure dressed in a Chinese jacket and a turban formed from his own hair. Accompanying him are several “tiger-yellow . . . natives of the Manillas” (from the Philippines), who were concealed in the Pequod's hold. Ishmael now makes sense of the secretive figures he had seen on the ship in Nantucket, the odd noises from the hold, and Ahab’s frequent trips below deck, attributing all of them to Fedallah and his crew. The harpoon boat teams are surprised by these newfound comrades, but Flask orders them to remain focused on their task—whale hunting. Their first attempt to chase a group of whales ends in failure. Flask has to climb on Daggoo’s shoulders due to his short stature. Queequeg succeeds in harpooning a whale, but the boat is capsized by the creature. A squall engulfs the scene in mist, endangering the overboard crew from getting crushed by their own passing ship. Eventually, they are safely rescued.

chapter 49

Ishmael finds humor in the bizarre circumstances he's in, being a first-time whaler and taken aback by the risks of even a common whale hunt. The Pequod's crew members assure him they've faced far more perilous situations. This prompts Ishmael to revise his will, with Queequeg's assistance, giving him some relief. He reaches a dark realization that he's like a dead man walking, viewing any extra survival time at sea as a fortunate extension.

chapter 50

Ahab's unconventional choice to command his own whaling boat, despite his injury, is not common among industry captains. Ishmael notes that the Pequod's owners would likely disapprove of this, explaining Ahab's secretive nature regarding Fedallah and his schemes. Nonetheless, “in a whaler, wonders soon wane” since the journey is filled with many extraordinary sights. While the whalers are usually not easily impressed, Ahab's team strikes them as odd, with “that hair-turbaned Fedallah” remaining a perplexing enigma throughout. Ishmael suggests that there's something devilish about Fedallah.

chapter 51

One evening, Fedallah spots what appears to be a whale blowing water from the ship's masthead. They attempt to follow it, but the whale vanishes. Strangely, a similar blow is observed each subsequent night. Ishmael refers to this as a "spirit-spout", assuming it to be a ghostly creature guiding them. Some crew members suspect it's Moby Dick leading them towards their doom. The Pequod navigates through the perilous Cape of Good Hope at Africa's southernmost point. Despite the risks, Ahab remains a strong leader, constantly monitoring the ship's direction through the cabin compass. Between the eerie "spirit-spout" and the treacherous route, the sailors accept their fate, becoming "practical fatalists."

chapter 52

The crew soon spots an eerie ship named the Goney, or Albatross, who has been navigating the sea for four long years. As their paths intersect, Ahab inquires from the crew of the Albatross about the whereabouts of Moby Dick. The captain of the Albatross attempts to reply but loses his speaking trumpet to a sudden wind gust. The crossing of the two ship's trails causes the fish trailing the Pequod to switch and trail the Albatross instead, causing Ahab to feel disheartened. The Pequod continues its global journey, prompting Ishmael to ponder over the irony of this grand mission being nothing more than moving in circles.

chapter 53

Ishmael expounds on why the Pequod and the Albatross avoided a “gam." He clarifies a gam as “[a] social meeting of two (or more) Whale-ships, generally on a cruising-ground; when, after exchanging hails, they exchange visits by boats’ crews: the two captains remaining, for the time, on board of one ship, and the two chief mates on the other.” These interactions usually involve swapping letters, reading materials and updates on their respective progress. However, Ahab is keen to have gams solely with ship leaders who have insights about Moby Dick.

chapter 54

Ishmael shares a tale concerning the Town-Ho, a sperm whaling ship from Nantucket, that he first heard during a meeting between this ship and the Pequod. He relays the version he later shared with Spanish acquaintances in Lima. The central conflict occurs between Radney, a high-ranking crew member from Martha's Vineyard, and Steelkilt, a sailor from Buffalo. When Radney provokes him, Steelkilt retaliates violently and instigates a rebellion. After the mutineers are apprehended, whipped, and then released, Steelkilt swears vengeance on Radney, who had lashed him in the captain's stead. However, before Steelkilt has the chance to enact his revenge, the Town-Ho crosses paths with Moby Dick. In the ensuing chaos of the attempt to spear the whale, Radney is thrown overboard and into the jaws of Moby Dick. Ishmael's listeners in Peru find the story hard to swallow. But he guarantees its authenticity by swearing on a Bible. He further bolsters his claim by asserting that he has personally met and conversed with Steelkilt.

chapter 55

Ishmael contemplates famous illustrations of whales. To someone who has truly seen whales, the majority of historical, scientific, and mythological depictions are glaringly incorrect. Consequently, he proclaims, "you must needs conclude that the great Leviathan is that one creature in the world which must remain unpainted to the last." Ishmael's only suggested way to understand a whale's appearance is through direct interaction with the beast. In the sea, a whale is predominantly hidden underwater, with only parts visible at any given moment. Dead whales can be seen almost fully, but they are to living whales what a destroyed ship is to one that's seaworthy. He advises readers not to "be too fastidious in your curiosity" about whales, as it is unlikely to be fulfilled.

chapter 56

Ishmael embarks on a hunt for accurate illustrations of whales. He finds solace only in two comprehensive French prints, portraying the sperm and right whales dynamically. This perplexes him, considering France isn't renowned for whaling. The most precise depictions of whales and the whaling process surprisingly stem from there.

chapter 57

Ishmael reflects on the diverse depictions of whales created by seamen, from carvings in ivory, to wooden and metal sculptures. Enthusiasts of the majestic creature can find its representations not only in art but also in nature's patterns, such as geological formations and even among the stars.

chapter 58

Brit is a small, yellowish substance that the right whale consumes. Ishmael shifts from discussing the dietary habits of whales to comparing the terrestrial and aquatic environments. He suggests the ocean harbors unseen terrors and persistent threats, contrasting the land where everything is observable and, thus, controllable. This perspective is extended to his view of the human soul, which he postulates holds a tiny isle of "peace and joy" amidst a vast sea of terror.

chapter 59

The Pequod journeys towards Java when Daggoo falsely identifies Moby Dick in the distance. With boats deployed and chase initiated, they soon discover it is not the infamous whale, but a colossal squid, a sight they consider unlucky. Ishmael comments on the belief that sperm whales feed on these squids, yet these whales primarily dwell and nourish themselves in the unseen depths of the ocean.

chapter 60

Ishmael discloses details on the whale-line in anticipation of an upcoming incident. The line, crafted from hemp, links to the harpoon at one end while the other end hangs loose for attaching to lines from other boats. It stretches across the boat and rapidly unwinds when a whale is speared, posing a danger to the harpoon crew. Ishmael believes that all men metaphorically have a whale-line around their necks, with the constant risks of life becoming clear only in times of disaster.

chapter 61

Queequeg perceives the squid as a positive sign, hinting at a sperm whale in close proximity. Not long after, the team spots a spraying sperm whale. Stubb and Tashtego manage to successfully hunt it down.

chapter 62

Ishmael shares a brief tale about a whale's capture. He asserts that the current method is unproductive, citing that the person throwing the harpoon has to expend too much energy rowing beforehand, which impedes their breath control and, in turn, their accuracy.

chapter 63

The crotch, a wooden support mechanism for a harpoon, takes a backseat as Ishmael reflects on the potential hazards of loose harpoons in the boats. Each line is connected to two harpoons, which are ideally both lodged into the whale. Yet, once the whale submerges after the initial hit, the second harpoon is typically discarded to avoid harm to the crew. Despite being discarded, the abandoned harpoon still represents a significant risk to the boats.

chapter 64

In contrast to most sailors, Stubb has a desire to feast on the meat of the whale he's captured. As he savors his meal, sharks swarm the whale's carcass, anchored to the vessel. Stubb orders Fleece, the African cook, to prepare his dinner and absurdly, to command the sharks to cease consuming the whale. Fleece humorously preaches to the sharks about adopting more refined manners. Afterwards, Stubb teases the cook, who in return, compares Stubb to a shark.

chapter 65

Ishmael delves into the gastronomic history of eating whales, noting that only Stubb and Eskimos maintain this tradition. The deterrents are the rich taste and large amount of meat. He adds another moral dilemma, that consuming whale meat under the light of a whale oil lamp feels disrespectful. Yet, he speculates, this irony may not be uncommon. His readers might consume beef using knives made of ox bones and clean their teeth with a goose feather after eating goose.

chapter 66

The crew ties the captured sperm whale to the ship's side, planning to handle it when day breaks. However, they are obliged to fend off or kill the swarm of sharks trying to feast on the whale remains. Ishmael advises caution when dealing with "the corpses and ghosts of these creatures", as Queequeg almost loses a hand to a deceased shark's razor sharp teeth that was lifted onto the vessel for its skin.

chapter 67

They start the gruesome task of "cutting-in," which is essentially the dissection of the whale. This procedure includes placing a hook into the creature's blubber and methodically removing it similar to peeling an orange's skin in a single piece.

chapter 68

While explaining the make-up of a whale's blubber, Ishmael claims that the slab of fat is in fact the whale's hide. He points out a delicate, film-like layer on the outside of the blubber, but asserts this outer layer is simply the skin of the skin. He expresses admiration for the whale's “thick walls," which enable it to exist without any impact from its surroundings.

chapter 69

Once the carving is done, the whale is set free for its "funeral," with vultures and sharks serving as the "mourners." The dreadful white corpse drifts off, with a "vengeful ghost" floating above, warding off other vessels from approaching. Often, drifting whale bodies are confused with rocks and reefs and are documented on sailors' maps, leading future whalers to steer clear of the region. The whale, thus, continues to induce fear, even post-mortem.

chapter 70

Ishmael narrates the intricate procedure of decapitating the whale before letting go of its body, as the head contains the precious spermaceti that can be used to produce high-quality oil. During the crew's eating break, Ahab engages in a conversation with the suspended whale's head alongside the ship, inquiring about the terrifying sights it has witnessed.

chapter 71

As Ahab interacts with the whale, the Jeroboam, another whaling vessel, appears. It's been hit by a disease outbreak, so its skipper avoids boarding the Pequod, instead meeting with Ahab via a small boat. Stubb identifies one of the boat's rowers as a man he's heard tales about from the Town-Ho's crew during their last gam. This individual, who once served as a prophet among New York's Shakers, declared himself as the archangel Gabriel, compelled the ship's captain to leap overboard, and swayed the crew. Captain Mayhew of the Jeroboam planned to abandon Gabriel at the next port, but faced a mutiny threat if he did. Pequod's crew now directly encounter Gabriel. As Mayhew narrates a tale about the White Whale to Ahab, Gabriel keeps interrupting. Per Mayhew, their first encounter with Moby Dick was through another ship's report. Gabriel then cautioned them against hunting the beast, labeling it “the Shaker God incarnated.” They confronted Moby Dick a year later and opted to pursue it. When a mate was about to hurl his lance, the whale hurled him into the water. Except for the drowned mate, all crew were unharmed. Gabriel had observed this event from the masthead. The actualization of his prophecy has converted the crew into his followers. Upon learning of Ahab's continued pursuit of the White Whale, Gabriel accuses him of blasphemy, cautioning, “Think, think of the blasphemer—dead, and down there!—beware of the blasphemer’s end!” Ahab, knowing he carries a letter for the deceased mate, attempts to pass it to Mayhew using a cutting-spade pole. Gabriel intercepts it, skewers it on the boat-knife, and flings it back at Ahab’s feet as the Jeroboam's boat retreats.

chapter 72

Ishmael elaborates on Queequeg's first experience of embedding the blubber hook into a whale during the cutting-in process. In his role as Queequeg’s bowsman, Ishmael fastens the monkey-rope around his waist, thus "wedding" himself to Queequeg who is perched on the whale's floating carcass trying to secure the hook. A footnote divulges the unique practice on the Pequod of tying the monkey and holder together, an improvement recommended by Stubb for increased holder reliability. As Ishmael stands by Queequeg, Tashtego and Daggoo wield their whale-spades to deter sharks. When Dough-Boy, the steward, gives Queequeg lukewarm ginger water, the mates scorn the encroachment of bothersome Temperance advocates and insist on the steward serving alcohol instead. The remaining ginger, a present from “Aunt Charity,” a Nantucket lady, is discarded into the sea.

chapter 73

The Pequod crew sights and kills a right whale. Stubb and Flask discuss Ahab's interest in the less valuable right whale, referred to as a "lump of foul lard". Flask explains Fedallah's theory that a ship with a right whale's head on one side and a sperm whale's on the other will maintain stability. Both men express their unease around Fedallah, labeling him as "the devil in disguise". The right whale's head is hoisted on the opposite side of the boat to the sperm whale's head. Indeed, the Pequod experiences equilibrium. Ishmael comments that the ship might float even better without either of the heads. He watches Fedallah, who stands in Ahab's shadow and notices that their shadows appear to "blend with, and lengthen Ahab's."

chapter 74

Ishmael uses the two whale heads from the Pequod to impart knowledge on "practical cetology." He highlights the sperm whale's unique features—including a sizeable sperm reservoir, ivory teeth, a lengthy lower jaw, and a single external blowhole. Ishmael portrays the sperm whale as possessing "more character" and a "pervading dignity" than the right whale, owing to the "mathematical symmetry" of its head. He marvels at the whale's tiny eyes situated on either side of its head, which offer it an unusual visual field. He also points out that the whale's external ear is minuscule, consisting of a mere pinhole.

chapter 75

Ishmael elucidates the physical attributes of a right whale, detailing its mouth bones that resemble Venetian blinds, a significantly large lower lip, a tongue, and a pair of external spout holes. He metaphorically compares the right whale to a Stoic and the sperm whale to a "Platonian."

chapter 76

Ishmael highlights that the broad, sturdy portion of the sperm whale's head appears to be simply a "wad." Yet in reality, within this thin, resilient shell lies a "mass of tremendous life." He observes that the power of the whale's head, much like numerous other elements in nature, originates from its adaptability and its capacity to be squeezed and reshaped.

chapter 77

Ishmael goes on to detail the two distinct sections of a whale's upper head: the case and the junk. He uses the "Great Heidelburgh Tun," a large German wine holder, as a comparison for the case. The case is home to a pool of sought-after spermaceti, a waxlike material found in the oil, which is painstakingly harvested after the whale's head is hoisted out of the water. The junk also houses oil, but it is caught within a tightly woven web of sturdy fibers.

chapter 78

Ishmael narrates the episode of Tashtego extracting spermaceti from the whale's head still hanging by the ship's side. He accidentally slips into the cavity, which is quite deep. Daggoo, in a state of fright, tries to toss a line into the head for Tashtego, but the gear supporting the head snaps, and the massive structure plummets into the sea. Queequeg daringly dives in and manages to rescue Tashtego. He does this by slicing into the gradually sinking head and "delivering" Tashtego in a manner similar to a doctor delivering a baby.

chapter 79

Ishmael uses the old techniques of studying the human character from physical features and the shape of the skull, and applies them to the whale. He examines the whale's characteristics and using these methods, he determines the sperm whale's vast, clear forehead signifies its divine status, while its "pyramidical silence" indicates its intelligence. However, Ishmael steps away from this analysis, admitting he's no expert, and challenges the reader to unravel the "hieroglyphics" found on the sperm whale's forehead.

chapter 80

Ishmael scrutinizes the whale's cranium, labeling its forehead as misleading due to its emptiness aside from the sperm. The whale's brain, he reveals, is merely ten inches wide, concealed behind a massive twenty-foot forehead. He further expresses preference for discerning a creature's character through its spine rather than its skull. Ishmael posits that evaluation based on the spine would lead to appreciation of the whale's colossal spinal cord, rather than dismissiveness of its tiny brain. He asserts that the whale's hump is a symbol of its unbeatable spirit.

chapter 81

The Jungfrau, a whaling ship, is in a quandary due to a lack of oil and failed whale hunts. The desperate captain visits the Pequod to request oil. However, Ahab, obsessed with the White Whale, inquires about it, to which the Jungfrau's captain has no knowledge. As soon as the Jungfrau's captain leaves the Pequod, a group of whales is spotted. Both the captains hurry after them. The Pequod's crew manages to spear a sluggish whale before the Germans, despite it being ancient, blind, and covered in growths. To their surprise, they find an old stone harpoon point embedded in its body. However, the whale's carcass begins to sink once tied to the ship, threatening to pull the ship down too. From this, Ishmael draws a conclusion that predicting a whale's buoyancy is uncertain. Meanwhile, the green crew of the Jungfrau mistakenly pursues a finback, a fast swimmer that resembles a sperm whale but is near impossible to catch.

chapter 82

Ishmael reflects on the esteemed past of whale hunting, referencing various mythologies and religious texts. From Greek tales, famous British folklore, biblical stories, to Hindu legends, figures like Perseus, St. George, Hercules, Jonah, and Vishnu (spelled as "Vishnoo" by Melville) all qualify as whale hunters based on their respective narratives.

chapter 83

The narrative delves into the story of Jonah, a theme that has been hinted at since the "Extracts" and Father Mapple’s sermon in New Bedford. The tale is seen from the perspective of an elderly Sag Harbor whaler, who doubts the story based on his own experiences. Sag Harbor, as he is referred to, is skeptical that the type of whale mentioned in the biblical tale could ingest a man. He also raises doubts about a human's ability to survive in a whale’s stomach, considering the creature's digestive juices. The response of various theologians to such practical inquiries is meticulously elaborated by Ishmael.

chapter 84

Ishmael details how Queequeg oils the bottom of a harpoon boat to improve its velocity, seemingly conscious of the imminent whale encounter. Stubb successfully lands a harpoon on a speedy, relentless whale. To secure the fleeing creature, he employs a "pitchpole" technique, hurling a long lance from the jolting boat. The lance hits its mark and the whale ejects blood.

chapter 85

Ishmael tries to explain the science behind a whale's spouting with meticulous detail but finds it challenging to define the phenomenon precisely. His theory is that the spout is essentially a mist, akin to the "semi-visible steam" exuded from the minds of greats like Plato, Pyrrho, the Devil, Jupiter, Dante, and even his own.

chapter 86

Ishmael shifts his attention to the opposite side of the whale, particularly its tail, which is the creature's most renowned feature. He expresses admiration for the blend of strength and elegance found in the tail, speculating that it symbolizes the whale's aspiration to reach heaven—its tail is often spotted pointing upwards. Whether this posture is interpreted as a holy tribute or a demonic resistance (akin to raising a clenched hand) is up to the beholder's sentiment. Ishmael points out that the tail is the sperm whale's primary way of causing harm to humans.

chapter 87

Navigating through the Sunda straits, the Pequod bypasses any ports, leading Ishmael to reflect on the solitude and self-reliance of the whaler. While traversing the straits, they encounter a large group of sperm whales, termed the “Grand Armada”, circling in unison. The Pequod, chasing the whales, finds itself chased by Malay pirates. Escaping the pirates' clutches, the crew sets off after the whales, miraculously ending up in the heart of their tranquil formation. A harpooned whale's thrashing incites widespread panic among the herd. The crew boats are precariously positioned but manage to evade the ensuing turmoil. The sailors proceed to "drugg" the whales, using lines tied to hefty wooden blocks as a method to exhaust the whales. The crew attempts to "waif" the whales, marking them with flagged rods to claim them as the Pequod's catch for later retrieval. Their efforts yield a single captured whale.

chapter 88

Ishmael elucidates some jargon related to whaling, starting with the term "schools" of whales. Such a school usually consists of one male, referred to as the "schoolmaster" or "lord", and multiple female whales, referred to as the "harem". In encountering a school, whalers target solely the female whales and their offspring, since the males are excessively large and pose a threat. As these male whales mature, they abandon their harems and become lone, irritable roamers. The all-male schools are like a "mob of young collegians". Ishmael points out a key distinction between male and female whales, that is, males leave injured peers behind while females don't, sometimes even risking their own safety to help a wounded mate.

chapter 89

Ishmael elaborates on his use of "waifs" from Chapter 87. He discusses old and new whaling laws, defining a "Fast-Fish" as one that's claimed by a party and a "Loose-Fish" as one available for anyone to seize. A fish is considered "fast" if physically tied to a party or marked with a waif. With a lawyer's precision, Ishmael offers examples to demonstrate the complexity of enforcing these laws due to their inherent ambiguity. The entire world can be viewed through this lens, where ownership is deemed the sole legal proof of possession. He even notes that nations can be deemed "Fast-Fish" or "Loose-Fish" by stronger countries for colonization purposes.

chapter 90

Ishmael explains the peculiar maritime regulations of England, which decree that any captured whale or sturgeon along its shores is considered "fast" and is English property. The king receives the whale's head while the tail is handed over to the queen, with the hunter left empty-handed. Ishmael narrates an incident where unfortunate whalers ended up forfeiting all the earnings from their painstakingly caught whale to a well-off duke.

chapter 91

The Pequod crosses paths with the French vessel, Bouton de Rose, noted for its foul smell. The French ship has two whales in tow: a "blasted whale" which is of no worth, and another that perished from indigestion. Stubb queries a French sailor about Moby Dick, only to learn they know nothing of the infamous White Whale. Stubb cunningly questions why the French are attempting to extract oil from the worthless whales. The sailor confesses that his captain, on his maiden voyage, disregards his advice about the valueless whales. Stubb boards the French ship to inform the captain of his futile endeavor, with knowledge the French lack: the second whale could hold ambergris, a prized substance from the innards of ailing whales. In a clever ruse, Stubb convinces the French sailor to help him deceive his captain into believing the "blasted" whales could infect their crew. The frightened captain jettisons the whales, allowing Stubb to play the Good Samaritan by offering to remove the second whale using the Pequod's boats. When the Bouton de Rose departs, Stubb promptly secures the second whale, revealing the coveted ambergris within.

chapter 92

Ishmael shares that ambergris, despite its unattractive appearance and its origin from whales' insides, is a crucial ingredient in perfumes. He contemplates why whales are notoriously known for their foul smell. Historically, whaling ships weren't equipped to process blubber into oil while at sea, causing it to decay and emit a strong odor upon reaching the dock. However, the processed oil is devoid of any smell and acts as a natural cleaning agent. He points out that living whales, akin to attractive women, actually exude a pleasingly musky scent.

chapter 93

Instead of his usual role as cabin boy aboard the Pequod, Pip is chosen as an emergency oarsman for Stubb's harpoon boat. His first outing goes relatively smoothly, but on his second stint, he panics when a whale hits the boat's underside, causing him to plunge into the sea. The crew's irritation grows as they are forced to forego their catch to save Pip, who's become ensnared in the ropes. Stubb sternly orders him not to repeat his mistake, warning he won't be rescued if it happens again. Defying this, Pip jumps once more, resulting in Stubb abandoning him in the vast ocean to teach him a lesson. The ordeal unhinges Pip, at least from the perspective of his fellow sailors. However, Ishmael opines that Pip's experience has granted him a unique, divine insight.

chapter 94

The whalers need to constantly melt the quickly solidifying spermaceti from the whale's head. Ishmael becomes particularly fond of the "sweet and unctuous" sperm, enthusiastically squeezing it all morning. His close proximity with his fellow sailors leads to some unintentional touching in the sperm vat. He also talks about various other whale parts used for oil extraction. He briefly takes us into the ship's "blubber-room" where the cut blubber is readied for processing. It's a hazardous place, with the men often losing toes to the sharp tools used for blubber cutting.

chapter 95

Ishmael provides a detailed account of the remaining whale parts, notably the genitalia which he subtly refers to as the "cassock." He audaciously compares the whale's reproductive part to a clergyman's robes, associating it with a certain sense of heathen mystique. It's not just symbolic, but also has a practical function aboard the ship: the person responsible for cutting the blubber dons the dark "hide" from the organ as a protective layer while at work.

chapter 96

Ishmael attempts to demystify the try-works, an apparatus used to boil blubber and extract all the oil. To him, the try-works elicit an aura of mysterious malevolence, marked by an indescribable, potent scent akin to funeral pyres. The harpooners, who are pagans, are in charge of its operation. The intimidating red flames of the try-works, combined with the inky sea and the obsidian night, cause Ishmael to lose his bearings while manning the tiller. Everything around him becomes topsy-turvy, with no guiding compass to direct him.

chapter 97

Ishmael conveys that whalers constantly bask in illumination, as their profession involves harvesting oil from the ocean depths. They have unfettered access to this oil, which they use to fill numerous lamps owned by each of them, creating a radiant atmosphere similar to a sacred place within the ship's cabin.

chapter 98

Ishmael wraps up his explanation of the whale oil processing procedure. The oil is stored in barrels and the vessel is tidied up. He clarifies a misbelief about whalers, stating that they are not naturally filthy. Quite the contrary, sperm whale oil is an excellent cleanser. Yet, Ishmael concedes that the cleanliness of whalers is short-lived as they return to their messy routine once another whale is spotted, and the process recommences.

chapter 99

Ishmael recounts how his fellow crew members react to the golden doubloon attached to the mainmast. Ahab, Starbuck, Stubb, Flask, the Manxman, Queequeg, Fedallah, and Pip all have different interpretations of the coin. The coin displays an image of three mountains, each topped with a different symbol, and a segment of the zodiac with the sun in Libra. Ahab sees the coin as a mirror of the world and man's reflection in it. Starbuck regards it as a Christian emblem. Stubb, initially seeing the coin merely as currency, begins to explore its deeper meanings after witnessing Ahab and Starbuck's thoughtful contemplations. He tries to decipher the zodiac symbols using his almanac, noting that books provide bare facts, while people add the meaningful interpretations. He sees the entire zodiac as a metaphor for human life. Flask, however, only perceives the coin's worth and can't comprehend why the others are so fascinated by it. The Manxman prophesizes that they will come across the White Whale in a month and a day, when the sun is in the same zodiac section as on the coin. Queequeg views the coin comparable to a tattoo on his leg but remains silent. Fedallah, possibly a sun worshipper, pays respect to the coin. Lastly, Pip sees the doubloon as the ship’s “navel” - the vital core that keeps it intact.

chapter 100

The Pequod crosses paths with another whaling ship, the Samuel Enderby from London, led by a cheerful captain and his crew. Ahab inquires if they've come across Moby Dick. The captain, Boomer, confirms having met the whale, losing an arm in the process. The two disfigured captains salute each other with their prosthetic limbs. Boomer's tale of his missing arm is gruesome, but he focuses more on the rum toddies he enjoyed during his recovery. From his brief recount, the Pequod crew learns that Boomer's injury was due to a harpoon attached to Moby Dick. While his arm wasn't ripped off, it was amputated due to an infected wound. Boomer's crew stumbled upon the White Whale again, but he refrained from pursuing it a second time. Ahab persistently asks for the whale's direction, leading the Samuel Enderby’s crew to think him mad. Declining their offered hospitality, Ahab hastily retreats back to his ship.

chapter 101

Ishmael delves into the importance of Samuel Enderby's identity, a man who outfitted the inaugural English sperm whaling vessel. He meticulously clarifies that by the time the English ventured into the field, Americans were already experienced sperm-whalers. He explores the historical context of the Enderby name, before narrating the story of the renowned whaler, Samuel Enderby. British vessels, including this one, are celebrated for their generous hospitality, especially in terms of serving liquor.

chapter 102

Ishmael strives to comprehend the whale through its skeletal structure. To ensure his credibility, he shares a tale of a visit to his pal Tranquo, a fictional king. Tranquo's kingdom features a grand sperm whale skeleton serving as a holy place, with its cranium forming the sacred altar. Despite the clerics' objections, insisting that divine proportions are immeasurable, Ishmael jots down the whale's measurements and gets them inked on his right arm. He opts to record the dimensions in abbreviated form to conserve as much body surface as possible for “a blank page for a poem [he] was then composing.”

chapter 103

Ishmael shares his insights, drawn from his examination of a whale skeleton in Tranque. He reckons the heaviest sperm whales tip the scales at about ninety tons, having the weight equivalent of “would considerably outweigh the combined population of a whole village of one thousand one hundred inhabitants.” He proceeds to provide a comprehensive breakdown of the whale's skeletal structure. He issues a warning, however, that these bones offer only an incomplete understanding of the whale, given the ample flesh it carries and the inability of the skeleton to reflect the creature's living state. He continues to state that it's impossible to find an accurate portrayal of a complete whale.

chapter 104

Ishmael acknowledges that his depiction of the whale may seem disrespectful, but he insists he's doing the best he can. He opts to regard the Fossil Whale from an ancient and fossil-related perspective. He argues that no matter how he describes the whale, it can't be an exaggeration due to the creature's own magnificence. He proves his qualifications as a geologist and shares his discoveries. However, he remains disappointed with his depiction of the whale, stating “the skeleton of the whale furnishes but little clue to the shape of his fully invested body.” This section goes beyond merely describing the whale; it presents it as an ancient species, allows Ishmael to contemplate on time as a human concept.

chapter 105

Overwhelmed by the whale's majesty, Ishmael concedes his failure to adequately describe it. He ponders if such a fantastic creature will continue to exist and whether its size is lessening. Observing that man and other animals have grown larger over ages, he is skeptical about any claims of the whale shrinking. Regarding the whale's longevity, Ishmael maintains that even though whales no longer move in groups and their habitats have shifted, they persist. He credits their survival to their new dwelling places at the poles, unreachable by humans. He also points out that many large mammals are persistently hunted, yet it's unlikely that the whale is at risk due to its vast habitat and concurrent generations. Whales, he suggests, are uniquely suited to survival: if another biblical flood were to occur, Ishmael comments, whales would not be affected.

chapter 106

Ahab requests the ship's carpenter to craft him a replacement leg, doubting the reliability of the one he currently has. His mistrust arises from a recent incident where he struck it hard against the ship's deck after coming back from the Samuel Enderby. Ahab is concerned that his leg might not hold up much longer. In fact, Ishmael recalls an episode before the Pequod set sail from Nantucket, where Ahab was discovered on the ground, his whalebone leg twisted and dangerously close to puncturing his groin.

chapter 107

The versatile ship's carpenter is assigned the task of creating a new artificial limb for Ahab. Despite his capability, the carpenter perceives everything, including human body segments, as mere mechanical components.

chapter 108

In this theatrical act, Ahab seeks the carpenter's assistance in fitting his new limb. He mistreats the carpenter, rambles about hell, and the phantom sensation of a missing leg. Upon his exit, the carpenter ponders over the captain's odd behavior.

chapter 109

The crew realizes that the oil barrels on board are seeping. Starbuck warns Ahab and proposes they halt to mend them. However, Ahab dismisses the suggestion, stating his apathy towards the vessel's proprietors or any monetary gain. Starbuck protests against this, leading Ahab to aim a musket at him. Starbuck retorts with, "I ask thee not to beware of Starbuck; thou wouldst but laugh; but let Ahab beware of Ahab; beware of thyself, old man." After Starbuck's exit, Ahab abruptly changes his mind and commands the barrels to be fixed. Ishmael contemplates that Ahab's abrupt shift was a tactical move to prevent upsetting the crew.

chapter 110

When the casks need fixing, Queequeg falls sick. Convinced he will die, he has a coffin built and places his idol, his harpoon, and other significant items into it. He then climbs in and shuts the lid. Pip, on the other hand, performs a dance around the coffin, asking Queequeg to find his past sane self when he reaches paradise. Queequeg recovers and gets out of the coffin, which Ishmael believes is due to his "savage" nature and his will to regain his health. He uses the coffin as a storage box and begins to inscribe his body tattoos onto the coffin lid. These tattoos, created by a prophet in his tribe, supposedly represent "a complete theory of the heavens and the earth, and a mystical treatise on the art of attaining truth."

chapter 111

Ishmael reflects on the tranquil, placid Pacific Ocean. The ocean provokes a sense of peacefulness and appears heavenly to him. Ishmael's thoughts shift to Ahab, acknowledging that similar soothing thoughts do not affect the captain's mind.

chapter 112

This segment delves into the life of the Pequod's blacksmith, whose terrestrial existence crumbled due to alcoholism. Similar to Ishmael's earlier motives to join the Pequod's crew, it's suggested that the ocean lures in melancholic men wishing for death, but incapable of taking their own life.

chapter 113

Ahab instructs the blacksmith to forge a unique harpoon, designed specifically for Moby Dick. He provides the blacksmith with the remnants of racehorse shoe nails, recognized for their exceptional durability, for the creation of the weapon. Despite initially guiding the blacksmith, Ahab abruptly takes charge of the harpoon's construction, shaping the steel on the anvil and using the blood of the three harpooners as a substitute for water to temper it. Pip’s echoing laughter concludes the scene.

chapter 114

The ocean's serene facade belies its vicious nature. Ishmael refers to the ocean as 'gilt', as it appears golden during sunset and deceives with its tranquility. This peaceful vista prompts Ahab, Starbuck, and Stubbs to contemplate the sea from their distinct philosophical perspectives.

chapter 115

The grim Pequod, on its ongoing hunt for Moby Dick, crosses paths with the Bachelor, a cheerful Nantucket whaling ship headed home with a full load. The Bachelor's captain, though aware of Moby Dick's tales, doubts their authenticity and extends an invitation to Ahab and his crew to partake in their celebration. Ahab denies the offer, and both vessels part ways while Ahab ponders over a vial of Nantucket sand in his possession.

chapter 116

On the following day, the crew of the Pequod successfully hunts down several whales. One particular whale's action of turning to face the sun while on its deathbed prompts Ahab to address it with a sense of marvel. He observes that the dying creature, just like humans, seeks solace in the sun's heat. Subsequently, Ahab pays homage to the ocean, referring to its rolling waves as his "foster-brothers."

chapter 117

Ahab remains watchful during a night over a distant whale, getting a daunting prophecy from Fedallah about his demise. The prophecy states that Ahab's death will come after he sees two hearses, one "not made by mortal hands" and another crafted from American wood. Given the rarity of hearses at sea, Ahab dismisses the idea of his death during the journey. In addition, Fedallah reveals his own death will precede Ahab's and that Ahab can only be killed by hemp. Interpreting this as a prediction of being hanged, Ahab again downplays the likelihood of such a fate on the waters.

chapter 118

Ahab, back aboard the Pequod, wields a quadrant to figure out their geographical position by measuring the sun's location. Deeming it inadequate for his needs, he crushes it beneath his foot and commands a change in course. Starbuck perceives Ahab's aspirations to be trivial and predicts his conduct will lead to obscurity and ruin. Contrarily, Stubb admires Ahab's tenacity to "live in the game, and die in it!"

chapter 119

During a stormy day, the Pequod encounters a typhoon resulting in the destruction of one of their harpoon boats. The strange storm creates white flames atop the ship's three masts. Despite the peril, Ahab dismisses the crew's plea to set up lightning rods as a protective measure. Ahab is fascinated by the illuminated masts, admiring them as positive omens and marks of his strength. Conversely, Starbuck regards the spectacle as a cautionary sign against pursuing Moby Dick. Upon noticing that Ahab's harpoon is also ablaze, Starbuck views it as a divine objection to Ahab's actions. Unperturbed, Ahab seizes the fiery harpoon, reassuring the scared crew that their joint mission is not to be feared. He douses the flame on the harpoon, symbolically extinguishing “the last fear.”

chapter 120

Starbuck once again doubts Ahab's decisions, especially in relation to the sails amidst a storm. Advocating for the removal of one sail, he is met with Ahab's refusal, who instead suggests securing it more tightly. Ahab expresses annoyance at Starbuck's repeated questioning of his capacity to lead.

chapter 121

Stubb and Flask engage in a dialogue concerning the tempest and Ahab's conduct. Stubb takes the lead in the discussion, asserting that the current voyage isn't any riskier than their previous ones, despite the apparent perilous circumstances Ahab seems to be leading them into.

chapter 122

Tashtego, positioned on the main-top-sail yard, muses over the fact that rum is valued more by sailors than the impending storm.

chapter 123

After the tempest subsides, Starbuck makes his way to inform Ahab. En route to the quarters, he notices an array of guns, one of which Ahab had previously pointed at him. Aggravated by Ahab's irresponsible and self-centered actions, he contemplates on assassinating his leader. He concludes that he can't murder Ahab while he sleeps and heads back topside, requesting Stubb to rouse Ahab.

chapter 124

Ahab finds himself on the ship's deck, discovering the storm has disrupted the compasses the following day. Proclaiming himself as “lord over the level loadstone yet”, he decides to craft his own navigational needle. At this point, Ishmael observes and states “[i]n this fiery eye of scorn and triumph, you then saw Ahab in all his fatal pride.”

chapter 125

Ahab is forced to rely on the rarely used log and line to determine the ship's velocity, as the rest of his navigational tools are no longer working. However, due to dampness and heat, the line snaps, leaving Ahab without any remaining original instruments for navigation. He beckons Pip for assistance, but receives incomprehensible responses. Ahab, moved by Pip's erratic ramblings, declares that Pip will now reside in his cabin since the boy has touched his "inmost center."

chapter 126

As the Pequod nears the equatorial fishing area, the crew members believe they hear eerie sounds like those of mermaids or spirits. The Manxman suggests these are cries from recently deceased men in the sea. Ahab mocks this belief, explaining that they sailed past a seal colony overnight. However, the crew's superstitions about seals aren't eased by Ahab's rationale. The following day, a crew member falls from the masthead. The life buoy thrown to him is old and waterlogged, causing it to sink. Consequently, the man drowns. Starbuck, Stubb, and Flask agree to use Queequeg’s coffin as a replacement life buoy.

chapter 127

The writing style of this section resembles a drama, featuring a dialogue and a monologue from Ahab. The carpenter expresses his dissatisfaction over his task of converting the coffin into a buoy. Ahab perceives the irony of the task and accuses the carpenter of being as "unprincipled as the gods" for carrying it out. Ahab summons Pip to converse about the "wondrous philosophies" related to their predicament. Ever since Pip's oceanic ordeal, the pair have shared a special bond.

chapter 128

The Pequod, in its continued search for Moby Dick, comes across another ship, the Rachel. Its captain, Gardiner, confirms having sighted the White Whale. He then boards Ahab's ship, pleading for help in finding his missing son who was lost while hunting Moby Dick. Despite the desperate appeal, Ahab declines, unwilling to divert time away from his own hunt for the White Whale.

chapter 129

Aware of Moby Dick's proximity, Ahab devotes considerable time pacing the ship's decks. One evening, Pip attempts to shadow him, assuring Ahab of his unwavering loyalty. Ahab instructs Pip to remain in the captain’s quarters, fearing that his empathy for Pip's madness could divert his attention from his vengeance pursuit.

chapter 130

Ahab, always accompanied by Fedallah, maintains his vigil on deck. The ship's crew adapts to a state of suppressed quiet. Ahab’s relentless lookout heightens his fixation on the whale, leading him to resolve that he should be the initial one to spot the marine giant. He calls upon Starbuck to assist him in mounting the main-mast and tending to his rope. While Ahab is perched there, his hat is pilfered by a dark hawk, an event regarded by Ishmael as an ill omen.

chapter 131

The Pequod unexpectedly crosses paths with a sorrowfully named ship, the Delight, which has already had a grim encounter with Moby Dick, leaving its whale boat eviscerated and men lifeless. As the Pequod sails past, a corpse is dropped into the sea from the Delight. The crew aboard the Delight takes note of the coffin-shaped life buoy affixed to the rear of the Pequod, interpreting it as a clear harbinger of impending calamity.

chapter 132

Ahab and Starbuck share experiences of their families, with Ahab expressing melancholy over his relentless pursuit of Moby Dick. He considers himself foolish and pitiful. Starbuck advises him to abandon the pursuit, but Ahab struggles with the idea as he believes he is propelled by destiny. As Ahab grapples with this significant conundrum, Starbuck retreats in despair. Ahab moves to a different part of the ship to peer at the water, with Fedallah following suit, peering over the rail.

chapter 133

Ahab, guided by his instinctive sense of a whale's scent, spots Moby Dick from the main royal-mast, thereby claiming the doubloon. The crew hastily follows the whale in their boats. Astoundingly, Moby Dick surfaces right beneath Ahab's boat, wreaking havoc and throwing the crew overboard. The whale poses a danger to the men, but Starbuck, guiding the Pequod, fends it off. The stranded crewmen are collected by the remaining boats. Moby Dick makes a quick getaway, following which the boats retreat back to the ship. Still, the crew remains vigilant for the whale's return, even amidst Starbuck's concerns.

chapter 134

Despite the boat's damage from the prior day, Ahab remains determined to chase Moby Dick. Spotting the whale again, Ahab's charisma and fervor inspire the crewmen to lower three boats, leaving Starbuck behind on the Pequod. Ahab's direct attack on the whale fails once more, with the whale wrecking the boats of Flask and Stubb by smashing them together. The whale also endangers Ahab's crew with an entanglement of harpoons and lances caught in line protruding from his flank. Ahab manages to clear and reattach the line, disposing of the weapons. Moby Dick then overturns Ahab’s boat, causing his whale-bone leg to break. Ahab curses his physical vulnerability. Back on the Pequod, he learns of Fedallah's drowning, a casualty of Ahab’s own line, which fulfills part of Fedallah’s death prophecy for Ahab—that Ahab would outlive Fedallah. A plea from Starbuck to abandon the chase is met with Ahab's assertion that he is the "Fates’ lieutenant," obliged to persist in his pursuit. The ship's carpenter quickly crafts Ahab a replacement leg from the remains of his wrecked harpoon boat.

chapter 135

On their third attempt to locate Moby Dick, the crew comes up empty until Ahab understands that the whale is now pursuing him. This prompts him to pivot the ship entirely, and he personally climbs the masthead. From this vantage point, he spots Moby Dick's spout and promptly returns to the deck. As Ahab prepares to depart in his boat, leaving Starbuck in control, a touching exchange ensues. Ahab requests a handshake from his chief officer and Starbuck tries to dissuade him from leaving. Sharks nip at the paddles as the boats drift away. Starbuck mourns over Ahab's seemingly inevitable fate. Ahab witnesses Moby Dick breaching. While two of the boats are destroyed by the whale, Ahab's survives. Upon seeing Fedallah's body bound to the whale by ropes, Ahab recognizes this as the first of Fedallah's predicted hearses—a transport for a body in the form of the whale. After the whale submerges once more, Ahab rows nearby the ship. He instructs Tashtego to attach a new flag to the main masthead as the Pequod's flag has unaccountably disappeared. They spot Moby Dick again and commence pursuit. The whale retaliates, charging towards the Pequod at full throttle. The impact from the hit sinks the ship, leaving it without its captain. Ahab discerns that the ship serves as the second hearse foretold by Fedallah, in which it acts as a tomb for the crew made from "American" wood. Stirred, Ahab resolves to hit Moby Dick with everything he's got. However, after throwing a harpoon at the whale, he gets entangled in the line and is pulled underwater, fulfilling the final part of Fedallah's prophecy. Meanwhile, Tashtego is still attempting to fix the flag to the ship's spar as it sinks. He unexpectedly catches a sky-hawk mid-flight, and the shrieking bird, entangled in the flag, sinks along with the ship. The whirlpool created by the sunken Pequod drags the remaining boats and crew underwater with it.

epilogue

Ishmael emerges as the lone survivor from the Pequod's fatal meeting with Moby Dick. He owes his survival to being catapulted away from the disaster zone during the collapse of Ahab's spear boat. Queequeg's floating casket turns into Ishmael's lifesaver. The next day, the searching Rachel stumbles upon and rescues Ishmael, while still on the lookout for her own missing men.