Situate Herman Melville's 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' in its cultural and historical context, including an assessment of the main character's civic and personal responsibilities.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for an analysis of Herman Melville's 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' within its cultural and historical context, particularly focusing on the main character's civic and personal responsibilities.
Answer
'Bartleby, the Scrivener' critiques capitalism's dehumanization amidst 19th-century industrialization. Bartleby's passivity contrasts personal and societal roles.
'Bartleby, the Scrivener' is set on Wall Street during the mid-19th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization and capitalism. It critiques the dehumanizing effects of these forces, exemplified by Bartleby's passive resistance. His refusal to work highlights the conflict between personal and societal responsibilities within a capitalist framework.
Answer for screen readers
'Bartleby, the Scrivener' is set on Wall Street during the mid-19th century, a period marked by rapid industrialization and capitalism. It critiques the dehumanizing effects of these forces, exemplified by Bartleby's passive resistance. His refusal to work highlights the conflict between personal and societal responsibilities within a capitalist framework.
More Information
Herman Melville's story explores themes of individualism, alienation, and passive resistance, which resonate with modern critiques of economic and social systems.
Tips
Avoid viewing Bartleby's behavior only as personal defiance; consider its symbolic critique of societal structures.
Sources
- Bartleby the Scrivener: Historical Context - SparkNotes - sparknotes.com
- Historical Context in Bartleby, the Scrivener - owleyes.org
- The Specter of Wall Street: 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' and the Language of Commodities - researchgate.net
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