Chapter 133 Summary

On the morning of a clear, beautiful day, Ahab stands by the rail of the ship. Overcome by the day's beauty, he sheds a tear while looking over the side of the boat. Starbuck witnesses the show of emotion. Ahab begins to talk to him of home, family and growing older. Hoping to take advantage of Ahab's emotions, Starbuck tries to persuade him to command the ship to turn back and to give up the chase. Ahab then begins to ponder why he must hunt Moby Dick to the death. While Ahab is still talking, Starbuck leaves him in despair.

Chapter 133 Analysis

Through his talk with Starbuck, Melville shows Ahab does have the same feelings and emotions as the other men, however, he feels compelled to finish his mission. This is the first time in the novel that Ahab seems to show any...