Human Will in the World of Moby Dick as Seen in the Eyes of Father Mapple (Moby Dick)

675 Words3 Pages
Human will in the World of Moby Dick as seen in the eyes of Father Mapple Towards the beginning of Moby Dick the character of Fr. Mapple serves as one of great importance within the context of Ishamels’ journey throughout Moby Dick since he foretells the fate of Captain Ahab by drawing a scriptural analogy between Captain Ahab’s hunt for Moby Dick and the destructive journey of Jonah being held captive in the belly of the whale. By drawing upon this analogy, Fr. Mapple is able to provide instruction for the shipmates before they embark upon their vengeful journey with Captain Ahab. In addition to providing instruction for the shipmates through Scriptural reference, Fr. Mapple also touches upon significant themes of divine justice within the context of the Pequod’s journey, along with the prevalent theme of the Captain’s duty to lead his ship through peril and darkness. Fr. Mapples preaching proves to be significant within the context of the play since the preaching of Fr. Mapple serves as a potential resolution for the moral dilemmas faced by Ishmael and Captain Ahab throughout their journey. Fr. Mapple begins his sermon in a small chapel in New Bedford prior to the voyage to Nantucket. He retells the story of Jonah and the whale in his own seafaring way focusing especially on Jonahs disobedience towards Gods commands. As Fr. Mapple describes, “ With this sin of disobedience in him, Jonah still further flouts at God, by seeking to flee from Him”. Jonah tries to flee God, but he finds that there is no place where he can run away from God. He was then casted overboard during a storm at sea and is swallowed by a whale. Jonah's salvation comes only when he transcends his own desires and submits to God's will. This provides a strong relationship to Ahab, which sins in numerous ways throughout the book but never repents and focuses all obligations to the his

More about Human Will in the World of Moby Dick as Seen in the Eyes of Father Mapple (Moby Dick)

Open Document