Maddie James
In Chapter 119 of Moby Dick, titled The Candles, the Pequod is struck by a typhoon, causing the sails to be torn from the masts. As the storm rages, Stubb, Starbuck, and Flask work to secure the rigging and boats. The chapter includes references to candles, which are described as lights atop the masts created by a scientifically explainable event. However, the crew interprets these lights as an omen, with Stubb and Starbuck having differing interpretations of their meaning. The chapter also explores themes of omen, symbol, and possible allegory, with the characters representing types or archetypes. Ahab's monologue and behaviour in this chapter further develop his character and motivations, revealing his defiance and obsession with Moby Dick.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of candles | Three |
| Position | Atop the masts |
| Type of fire | St. Elmo's fire |
| Other names | Corposants |
| Superstition | Omen of ill luck |
| Stubb's interpretation | Good omen |
| Ahab's interpretation | Sign of good luck, leading the way to Moby Dick |
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What You'll Learn
The candles are an omen of bad luck
In Chapter 119 of Moby-Dick, titled "The Candles," the candles referenced throughout the chapter are seen by the crew as an omen of bad luck. The chapter depicts a typhoon hitting the Pequod, causing chaos and destruction as the sails are torn away and Ahab's whaling boat is smashed against the side of the ship.
During this tumultuous event, Stubb, one of the characters, maintains his cheerful demeanour and sings a sea chanty, while Starbuck, another character, expresses his concern and believes that the storm is a sign that they should not be on this voyage. The crew witnesses the appearance of "candles," which are described as lights atop the masts or fiery balls of lightning called "corposants" or St. Elmo's fire.
While Stubb interprets these "candles" as a good omen, most of the crew, including Ishmael, view them as an ill omen. The chapter explores the crew's interpretation of these lights as a foreboding sign, with Ishmael referencing the story of Belshazzar from the Bible to support this interpretation. The candles are seen as foreshadowing the final confrontation with Moby Dick, and they add to the growing belief among the crew that Ahab and Fedallah have made a pact with the devil.
Ahab, however, interprets the lightning and fires differently. He sees them as leading the way to Moby Dick and uses this moment to deliver a passionate speech in praise and worship of fire, declaring his defiance. This chapter, with its mix of omens, symbols, and possible allegories, offers insight into the minds of the characters and their varying interpretations of the events unfolding around them.
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Ahab's interpretation of the candles
In Chapter 119 of Moby Dick, titled "The Candles", the narrative focuses on the interpretation of certain events by the characters, particularly Ahab, Starbuck, and Stubb. The chapter begins with a typhoon hitting the Pequod, tearing away its sails and causing chaos and destruction. Amidst this turmoil, Stubb maintains his cheerful demeanour, singing and making light of the situation. In contrast, Starbuck views the storm as a foreboding sign, interpreting it as a portent of doom and a warning against their voyage.
The key event that shapes Ahab's interpretation of the candles occurs when he, along with the rest of the crew, witnesses the appearance of "candles" atop the masts. These "candles" are described as fiery balls of lightning, also known as corposants or St. Elmo's fire, which are often considered omens by superstitious sailors. While Stubb interprets these lights as a good omen, Ahab takes it a step further. He sees the lightning and the fires it causes as leading the way to Moby Dick, the white whale he has been obsessively pursuing.
Overall, Ahab's interpretation of the candles in Chapter 119 of Moby Dick reflects his complex character. It reveals his defiance, anger, and unique brand of worship directed at a higher power. His interpretation of the candles as a personal sign guiding him towards Moby Dick further intensifies his obsession with the white whale, setting the stage for the novel's climactic confrontation.
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Stubb's indifference to the omen
In Chapter 119 of Moby Dick, Stubb's indifference to the omen can be seen as a contrast to the reactions of his crewmates. While the crew of the Pequod views the lightning and fires as an ominous omen, with Starbuck interpreting it as a sign that they should not be on the voyage, Stubb remains cheerful and insists on interpreting the "candles" as a good omen.
Additionally, Stubb's indifference may also be due to his lack of superstition. Omens are often associated with superstition, and sailors are known to be superstitious, believing that storms and lightning are omens of ill luck. However, Stubb may not share these beliefs, choosing to interpret the omen in a positive light or not attaching any significance to it.
Furthermore, Stubb's indifference could also be a result of his loyalty to Ahab. Ahab, the captain of the Pequod, is known for his monomaniacal obsession with Moby Dick. Despite the ominous signs, Ahab remains determined to pursue his goal, and his passion overcomes the fear and distrust of the sailors. Stubb, as a loyal member of the crew, may be indifferent to the omen because he supports Ahab's mission and is willing to face the potential consequences.
Finally, Stubb's interpretation of the omen as a good sign could be a form of defiance, similar to Ahab's defiance towards the gods. By interpreting the omen positively, Stubb may be challenging the traditional interpretations of omens and asserting his own belief system. This act of defiance aligns with Ahab's defiance and further solidifies their shared goal of hunting Moby Dick, regardless of the potential consequences.
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Starbuck's fear and concern
In Chapter 119 of Moby-Dick, titled "The Candles", Starbuck is portrayed as a God-fearing man who is concerned about the growing omens of doom. He believes that the mysterious flames, or "candles", atop the masts are a sign of Ahab's evil nature and the impending doom that awaits them if they continue on their quest. Starbuck's fear and concern are evident in his interpretation of the flames as a bad omen, in contrast to Stubb's lighthearted and detached attitude.
Starbuck's religious beliefs are highlighted in this chapter, as he equates the flames to God's judgment on the ship. He sees the ship's encounter with the flames as a direct result of Ahab's ill-fated quest and urges the crew to mutiny and turn back. Starbuck's fear and concern for the crew's safety lead him to take action, attempting to draw the other sailors' attention to Ahab's harpoon, which is now shooting out flames.
Starbuck's cautious and thoughtful nature is further emphasised in his interactions with Stubb. He becomes angry with Stubb's indifference and failure to recognise the seriousness of their situation. Starbuck's fear and concern are not only for himself but also for the fate of the entire ship and crew. He tries to reason with Stubb, asking him to look through my eyes if thou hast none of thine own", indicating his desperation to make Stubb and the others see the danger he perceives.
Additionally, Starbuck's fear and concern extend beyond the physical dangers they face. He recognises the growing influence of Ahab's monomania on the crew and worries about their spiritual and moral well-being. Starbuck sees Ahab's worship of fire and defiance of God as a scandalous act, further confirming his belief in their ill-omened fate.
Throughout Chapter 119, Starbuck's fear and concern drive his actions and thoughts. He struggles to reconcile his religious beliefs with the seemingly random and chaotic world presented by Melville. Starbuck's character represents the human tendency to seek meaning and narrative in the face of uncertainty, highlighting the very real fears and concerns that can arise when faced with the unknown.
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Ahab's worship of the fire
In Chapter 119 of Moby Dick, titled "The Candles", the narrative centres around a typhoon that hits the Pequod, tearing away its sails and causing chaos and destruction. Amid this tumultuous setting, the chapter explores the complex character of Ahab and his intriguing relationship with fire, specifically his worship of it.
The chapter paints a vivid picture of the storm, with lightning flashing and "corposants" or St. Elmo's fire dancing around the masts. Superstitious sailors often viewed storms as ominous events, and in this case, they interpret the lights atop the masts as ill omens, believing that Ahab and Fedallah have made a pact with the devil. However, Ahab remains defiant in the face of these interpretations.
Throughout the chapter, Ahab's worship of the fire serves as a window into his psyche, revealing his complex emotions, his anger towards a higher power, and his unwavering determination to pursue his obsessions, regardless of the consequences. The imagery of fire and lightning adds to the dramatic tension and underscores the intensity of Ahab's character and his relentless pursuit of his goals.
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Frequently asked questions
The candles refer to the three masts of the Pequod, which are described as looking like three giant, spermaceti candles.
The Pequod is struck by a typhoon, which tears away its sails. During the storm, the masts are lit by lightning, causing them to resemble candles.
Stubb interprets the "candles" as a good omen, while Starbuck sees them as a foreboding sign. Ahab, meanwhile, interprets the lightning and fires as leading the way to Moby Dick and makes a speech in praise and worship of the fire.
The "candles" are seen as an omen, with most of the crew taking them to be a sign of ill luck as they approach Moby Dick's swimming ground. The chapter explores themes of omen, symbol, and possible allegory, with the characters representing types or archetypes.
