Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Discussion Questions: Christian vs. Savagery




Compared to his initial purpose, is it ironic when Queequeg thinks that  "he was fearful Christianity, or rather Christians, had unfitted him for ascending the pure and undefiled throne of thirty pagan Kings before him" (Melville 60)?  Why?

How is Queequeg's character different from those of Christian sailors?         

some quotes:
"even then, in Queequeg's ambition soul, lurked a strong desire to see something more Christendom than a specimen whaler or two."   (Melville 59)      

"Queequeg disdained no  seeming ignominy, if thereby he might haply gain he power of enlightening his untutored countrymen."    (Melville 59)   

" But  the ship, having her full complement of seamen, spurned his suit; not all the king his father's influence could prevail." (Melville 59)
  
Does Kokovoko represents a civilization or a savagery?  Are there any similarities between Kokovoko and Christian doctrines?
Are there any similarities between Kokovoko society and American fundamental ideals of democracy?
What are differences between Kokovoko's attitudes towards nature  and those of our society.
What are other Christian sailors purposes of going to sea? Could these purposes reveal something? Could they connect to any historical backgrounds?

What does Queequeg mean when he says "ah! him bery small-e fish-e; Queequeg no kill-e so small-e fish-e; Queequeg kill-e big whale" (Melville 59)?

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