Herman Melville, an American novelist, is best known for 'Moby-Dick.' Explore his early life, maritime adventures, and literary works that contribute to Dark Romanticism. His novels, including 'Typee' and 'Omoo,' reflect his seafaring experiences and complex views on human nature. Despite initial success, Melville faced challenges later in his career, with recognition coming after his death.
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Herman Melville was born in New York City in 1819 to a family with a history in the merchant marine
Formal Education
Melville attended the New York Male High School and the Albany Academy, but had to forgo further education due to financial difficulties
Reading Habits and Literary Aspirations
Melville's love for reading, influenced by Shakespeare and Milton, laid the foundation for his future literary career
After his father's death, Melville took on various jobs, including roles at a bank, his brother's fur business, and as a schoolteacher, to support his family
Melville's seafaring experiences, including a voyage to Liverpool and a whaling ship, provided the basis for his novels "Typee" and "Omoo."
In 1847, Melville married Elizabeth Knapp Shaw and they settled in New York City
Early Success with "Typee" and "Omoo"
Melville's first two novels, based on his South Seas experiences, brought him financial stability and critical acclaim
Varying Degrees of Success with Subsequent Works
While some of Melville's later works, such as "Mardi," "Redburn," and "White-Jacket," were successful, others, like "Moby-Dick" and "Pierre," faced criticism
Posthumous Recognition and Revival of Interest
Melville's literary genius, particularly in "Moby-Dick," was fully acknowledged after his death, leading to a revival of interest in his work
Melville's later works, including "Pierre," faced harsh criticism, signaling a decline in his literary career
Despite the declining reception of his works, Melville continued to write and also turned to poetry and public lecturing
In 1866, Melville began working as a customs inspector, providing financial stability but limiting his literary output, until his retirement in 1885
Melville's writing is noted for its complex sentence structures and rich allusions, with a Shakespearean influence in his narrative voice
Melville's works often incorporate biblical motifs and align with the Dark Romanticism movement, exploring the complexities of human nature
Beyond "Moby-Dick," Melville's other notable works, such as "Billy Budd, Sailor" and "Typee," solidify his place as a seminal figure in American literature, with his storytelling prowess and critical insights continuing to be studied and admired
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______ ______ was born on ______ ______, ______, in ______ ______ ______.
Herman Melville
August 1
1819
New York City
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Melville's early employment roles
Worked at a bank, brother's fur business, schoolteacher - diverse experiences influenced his worldview.
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Influences on Melville's literary style
Shakespeare to Milton - extensive reading shaped his narrative style and thematic depth.
