Moby-Dick discussion questions Chapter 16 “The Ship”: In this chapter we meet the Pequod’s principal owners
In this chapter we meet the Pequod’s principal owners, Peleg and Bildad. What seems comical about them? What seems serious?
What are the roles of money and religion in their lives? Do these things seem easily reconciled?
Why do these men participate in the enterprise of whaling?
In this chapter Ishmael remarks about his attitude toward wealth. How does it fit with the attitude of the Pequod’s owners?
The reader also gets introduced, indirectly, to Captain Ahab in this chapter. What seems positive about Ahab? What generates sympathy toward him? What creates misgivings?
