Race Relations

The topic of race relations is vividly illustrated through the relationship between Ishmael and Queequeg, especially within the first few chapters of the novel.  Ishmael describes Queequeg as a savage and nothing more.  The morning following their first night at the inn together, Ishmael clarifies his first impressions of Queequeg by saying, “…these savages have an innate sense of delicacy, say what you will; it is marvellous how essentially polite they are.” Here Ishmael is essentially admitting that he previously judged Queequeg based on his appearance and mannerisms prior to establishing a real connection with him.

At the end of chapter ten, Ishmael attempts to justify his decision of worshipping with Queequeg, mentioning that his “Presbyterian form of worship” is much different than Queequeg’s pagan idolatry.  This common act of worship between the two seems to bring down any racial or cultural barriers that may have previously existed.

The topic is brought up again when Ishmael and Queequeg finally enter Nantucket. At the very beginning of chapter thirteen Ishmael notes, “As we were going along the people stared, not at Queequeg so much, for they were used to seeing cannibals like him in their streets, but at seeing him and me upon such confidential terms."  The crowd's reaction to seeing the two together in such a civil manner is a reflection on the cultural views of these natives at the time.  Queequeg is certainly not the only character in the novel discussed in a racial context, as the majority of the harpooners on the crew are of native decent as well.  From the very beginning of the book, Melville makes it clear that race relations will serve as a major theme throughout the novel.