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 to analyze Herman Melville's 'Bartleby, the Scrivener' within its cultural and historical context, as well as to evaluate the civic and personal responsibilities of the main character, Bartleby.
Answer
"Bartleby, the Scrivener" critiques capitalism's dehumanizing effects in the 1850s Wall Street, questioning civic and personal responsibilities through Bartleby's nonconformity.
Cultural and Historical Context: Herman Melville's "Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street" is set in the 1850s, against the backdrop of the growth of capitalism and the emerging financial district in New York City. This era was marked by economic expansion, but also by increasing alienation of the individual in the workforce. Melville critiques these societal changes through the Wall Street setting, emphasizing themes of greed and dehumanization.
Civic and Personal Responsibilities: Bartleby, the main character, embodies resistance to societal and occupational expectations. His refusal to perform tasks—summed up in his phrase, "I would prefer not to"—questions the nature of work, compliance, and personal agency. Bartleby’s actions can be seen as a rejection of both personal responsibility and the civic duty tied to his employment.
Analysis: Bartleby’s behavior raises questions about individuality within mechanized social structures. His passivity draws attention to the inadequacies of the capitalist system in addressing the human spirit, highlighting the moral responsibility of society to support those on its margins.
Answer for screen readers
Cultural and Historical Context: Herman Melville's "Bartleby, the Scrivener: A Story of Wall Street" is set in the 1850s, against the backdrop of the growth of capitalism and the emerging financial district in New York City. This era was marked by economic expansion, but also by increasing alienation of the individual in the workforce. Melville critiques these societal changes through the Wall Street setting, emphasizing themes of greed and dehumanization.
Civic and Personal Responsibilities: Bartleby, the main character, embodies resistance to societal and occupational expectations. His refusal to perform tasks—summed up in his phrase, "I would prefer not to"—questions the nature of work, compliance, and personal agency. Bartleby’s actions can be seen as a rejection of both personal responsibility and the civic duty tied to his employment.
Analysis: Bartleby’s behavior raises questions about individuality within mechanized social structures. His passivity draws attention to the inadequacies of the capitalist system in addressing the human spirit, highlighting the moral responsibility of society to support those on its margins.
More Information
Bartleby's passive resistance and noncompliance highlight social issues in a rapidly industrializing society. The story remains a significant commentary on the impact of economic systems on individual well-being.
Tips
A common mistake is overlooking the socio-economic critique Melville presents. Pay attention to how Bartleby's actions reflect the larger societal context.
Sources
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