Moby-Dick; or, The Whale Moby Dick, or The Whale - Chapter 064-067
May 25, 2023
In this intriguing installment, Stubb tows a massive whale to the Pequod while Ahab remains distant. A lively whale-steak supper ensues, accompanied by feasting sharks nearby. The discussion shifts to the history and moral implications of eating whales, spotlighting sailors' practices. Tension rises as Stubb and his crew protect the carcass, brutally fending off sharks. The labor-intensive process of cutting into the whale is vividly described, showcasing the intricate techniques used to strip blubber and utilize the catch.
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Stubb’s Boisterous Supper
- Stubb celebrated after his boat's whale was killed by hauling a fresh steak and eating at the capstan-head by lantern light.
- His triumph contrasted with Ahab's quiet dissatisfaction, hinting at different crew responses to whale-catching success.
Cook Preaches To The Sharks
- Old Fleece, the ship's cook, preaches a comical sermon to the sharks while Stubb supervises his supper.
- The exchange blends humor and seafaring superstition, revealing shipboard camaraderie and dark comedy.
Whale Eating Exposes Culinary Hypocrisy
- Melville traces cultural tastes, noting whales were once haute cuisine and remain edible in many societies.
- He uses culinary history to challenge modern revulsion and expose hypocritical dietary norms.
