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Bartleby the Scrivener, A Tale of Wall Street

by Herman Melville

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Themes: Apathy and Passivity

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A central theme of the narrative is the indifference and passivity demonstrated by both Bartleby and the lawyer. Bartleby's form of rebellion is marked by his refusal to act. He silently opposes his employer's orders by opting to do nothing. Bartleby displays an alarming level of disinterest in his own future. When the lawyer inquires about what Bartleby would choose to do if given the option, Bartleby responds that he is not particular. In truth, nothing captivates him. Ultimately, Bartleby's lack of action leads to his death by starvation, which appears to arise more from a deep-seated disinterest in his own existence than from self-loathing. Conversely, the lawyer is unable to make decisive decisions in reaction to Bartleby's conduct, instead choosing to delay in hopes that the problem will resolve itself. This approach might suggest a certain detachment from Bartleby's plight, as the lawyer seems primarily focused on Bartleby's job performance. Both characters, in their unique ways, are consumed by a profound apathy towards others that immobilizes them.

Expert Q&A

How does the narrator in "Bartleby the Scrivener" display apathy towards Bartleby?

In "Bartleby the Scrivener," the narrator-lawyer demonstrates passive aggressive apathy in not forcefully removing Bartleby from the offices. However, he also demonstrates empathy for Bartleby, and so ultimately never takes action against him.

Does Melville emphasize the bizarre in "Bartleby, the Scrivener" to limit emotional responses to psychological states?

Melville's use of bizarre elements in "Bartleby, the Scrivener" actually heightens emotional responses to psychological and irrational states. Bartleby's increasingly irrational behavior perplexes the lawyer, who responds emotionally and irrationally himself by moving offices rather than confronting Bartleby. The lawyer's emotional involvement continues as he visits Bartleby in prison and is haunted by his death, emphasizing the emotional impact of Bartleby's psychological state on those around him.

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