Bartleby, the 19th Century Martyr
 |
| Robert S. Duncanson [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons |
Herman Melville uses Bartleby to expose the need for changes Christian charity in the 19th century American society. That time of the history is defined by the romantic art, novels and poems. The unseemly side was hidden from view and not talked about. The accounts of charity were that handing over a few dollars to, hopefully, be rid of the needy. I believe Melville was attempting to shame society, and bring about change through exposure. Melvilles' lawyer-narrator personifies the wealthy 19th century, while Bartleby is the dark, hopelessness of the poor and sick. The narrator gains his humanity, as Bartleby loses his, in a variation of the circle of life. I believe even today we can use Bartleby, the Scrivener as an example of how to keep humanity alive.
For me this was the one thesis I didn't feel I could find enough support for. I couldn't decide on any of them and it took forever for me to choose. I wish you luck on your paper.
ReplyDeleteI think that this thesis is the most challenging to write on. I am sure you will nail it judging by your theory about how the story can be applied today, and how you describe the time period without being vague. The circle of life bit should be easy to expand into a paragraph or two. Good luck!
ReplyDelete