June 3, 2019 - Chapter Ten


In this chapter, Ishmael describes his evening spent with Queequeg after leaving the chapel. Three points to consider again.

The first is that Ishmael demonstrates a belief in phrenology, i.e., the “scientific” analysis of skulls to deduce information about the character of a person. This was indeed a popular field in the 19th century, as detailed here: http://www.victorianweb.org/science/phrenology/intro.html

The second is the golden rule, according to which Ishmael decides that, despite Queequeg not being a Christian, he can be friends with him. The rule comes from the Sermon on the Mount – particularly Matthew 7:12.

Finally, it’s notable that the veiled homosexuality of Ishmael’s developing relationship with Queequeg comes up here again. Obviously, with the final analogy that Ishmael makes to Queequeg and he being like a husband and wife, it’s increasingly difficult for this point to be avoided.

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