Moby Dick

By Herman Melville
Ladies’ Literary Circle Discussion Guide

Chapter 1

1. From the first paragraph of this chapter, what can we tell about the narrator? Think of the
connotations with his name. What is his disposition and attitude? How might these
characteristics affect his narration?

2. When Ishmael says the sea is his substitution for pistol and ball and then follows this
statement with a theory about most men, what does he imply?

3. Referring to the above question, what might your answer have to do with the potential
theme of the book? What can you anticipate or theorize?

4. What is the narrator’s view about the relationship of men to water? Where is leading
readers in this discussion?

5. Who are the “orchard thieves” that Ishmael mentions? Why is this reference important?

6. What world views does Ishmael reference as he explains why goes whaling? Why do you
think he alludes to them?
Chapter 2

1. Why do you think Melville delays Ishmael in New Bedford? What does he want you to
know?

2. What is the significance of Ishmael’s brief sojourn into the black church?

3. How would you characterize the general atmosphere of this chapter?

4. What is Melville setting up? What details can you use to help you answer this question?
This is time to speculate, as there is no specific answer. I just want you to see what you
can glean from the text.

5. After reading the first two chapters, why do you think men signed up for whaling?