A mythology is traditionally a legendary story that promotes cultural values, fears, and ideas. In the novel, Moby Dick by Herman Melville, the harpooning of a great white Sperm whale is the focal point. It is arguable that Moby Dick may have been a myth but in all perspectives, the story reveals certain fears and values that are parallel to a culture specifically familiar to Americans. Those values include, but are not limited to, the American Dream which includes subheadings of equality and equal opportunity, determination, and fellowship. The term American Dream, originally introduced by the American historian James Tuslow Adams in his book, “The Epic of America” published in 1931, highlighted the importance of hard work to achieve personal goals and that every human, despite differences, should compete for success. This important value in America’s culture that is still seen in today’s society, and is incorporated into Melville’s eventful novel throughout the journey of harpooning the albino whale, Moby Dick. …show more content…
With the help of his crew, and the lingering possibility of failure, Captain Ahab continues the voyage aboard the Pequod to kill Moby Dick. Since the Pequod’s journey is supposed to last a few years, it is evident that the hard work and determination of the crew kept the voyage alive. With that, Captain Ahab evidently refused to aid another ship, Rachel, for he was goal oriented towards the harpooning of the rare whale. Additionally, the entire crew contributes their best effort to support the captain towards his goal, as they are also willing to sacrifice a portion of their lives aboard this ship with the inevitability of disaster, making Captain Ahab their