Moby Dick Ahab Quotes Analysis

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Fate is once again brought up as Melville describes Ahab’s appearance. Although Ahab’s eyes are not literally fiery, and you cannot see his “fatal pride” this description shows how eager Ahab is for revenge, but more importantly how he will ultimately die after encountering Moby Dick. Ahab has slowly become more out of touch with reality and reason, so much that he refuses to use the compass or listen to his crew. Ahab is determined to catch Moby Dick and there is no stopping him. With absolute control over the ship, the image depicted in the quote is one of power, terror, and upcoming death. Refusal to risk hurting his pride will lead to Ahab’s ultimate downfall, and it is his inevitable fate.

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