Chapter 49-50 Summary

After his first experience at whaling, Ishmael decides the whole thing is a huge joke at his own expense. He questions Queequeg, Stubb and Flask if the prior events were a typical example of a day in the life of a whaler. When he receives a positive answer from all three men, Ishmael decides it is time for him to prepare his will and takes Queequeg as a witness. After the affair is finished, he reports feeling at ease to live out the rest of his days.

This chapter begins with a discussion between Flask and Stubb of the wonder of Captain Ahab personally going after the whale. The Ishmael describes how it is often questioned whether an able-bodied captain should actually take part in the chasing of the whales. This is particularly so since Ahab is handicapped. Ishmael admits the...