Bartleby's Books: A Comprehensive Guide to John Thompson's Classic

Premise

Bartleby's Books is a classic literary work by American author Herman Melville, published in 1853. The novella follows the story of a scrivener named Bartleby, who works in a law office in Wall Street. Bartleby is a enigmatic character who refuses to do any work, famously saying, "I would prefer not to." His enigmatic behavior and resistance to authority have made him a memorable and widely discussed literary figure.

Historical Context

In the mid-19th century, New York City was undergoing a period of rapid growth and industrialization. The city's financial district, known as Wall Street, was a bustling hub of commerce. Melville's portrayal of Bartleby as a cog in the bureaucratic machine reflects the alienation and anonymity that many people felt in the face of such rapid change.

Plot Summary

The story begins with the unnamed narrator, a lawyer, describing his law office and his employees, including the recently hired Bartleby, a meek and unassuming man. Bartleby quickly becomes an object of curiosity for the narrator and his other employees, due to his refusal to do any work.

Despite repeated requests from the narrator, Bartleby steadfastly maintains his position, stating that he "would prefer not to." His passive resistance creates a growing sense of frustration and bewilderment among his coworkers and the narrator, who eventually dismisses Bartleby from his employment.

Bartleby, the Character

Bartleby is a complex and enigmatic character. His refusal to work has been interpreted in a variety of ways:

• As a critique of capitalism: Bartleby's resistance to authority and his refusal to participate in the capitalist system can be seen as a critique of the dehumanizing effects of industrial society.
• As a symbol of existentialism: Bartleby's existential crisis, his search for purpose and meaning in a meaningless world, reflects the philosophical ideas of existentialism that were popular in the 19th century.
• As a representation of mental illness: Bartleby's withdrawn and eccentric behavior has led some to speculate that he suffers from a mental illness such as depression or schizophrenia.

Literary Significance

Bartleby's Books has had a profound influence on American literature and culture. The novella's themes of alienation, bureaucracy, and resistance have resonated with readers for generations. Bartleby has become a symbol of the individual who resists the pressures of conformity and authority.

The novella has been praised for its minimalist style, its use of irony and ambiguity, and its exploration of complex psychological themes. It continues to be studied and discussed in universities and literary circles around the world.

Important Figures Related to Bartleby's Books

• Herman Melville (1819-1891): American author who wrote Bartleby's Books and other classic works such as Moby-Dick and Billy Budd.
• Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862): American writer and philosopher who influenced Melville's thinking about individualism and nonconformity.
• Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882): American philosopher and poet who promoted the idea of self-reliance and the importance of following one's own conscience.

Tables

Table 1: Publication History of Bartleby's Books

Table 2: Adaptations of Bartleby's Books

Table 3: Critical Reception of Bartleby's Books

Tips and Tricks

• Read the story carefully: Pay attention to the details of the plot, character, and setting.
• Consider the context: Think about the historical and social context in which the novella was written.
• Analyze the symbolism: Explore the ways in which objects and characters symbolize deeper meanings.
• Discuss the themes: Identify the major themes of the novella and consider how they are developed.
• Write a critical essay: Use your understanding of the novella to write a critical essay that analyzes its literary significance and impact.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Concise and well-written: The novella is written in a clear and concise style that is easy to read and understand.
• Thought-provoking: The novella raises important questions about the nature of work, individuality, and the human condition.
• Historically significant: The novella is an important work of American literature and culture that reflects the social and economic changes of the 19th century.

Cons:

• Short: The novella is relatively short, which may leave some readers wanting more.
• Ambiguous: The novella's ending is ambiguous, which can lead to different interpretations and discussions.
• Challenging: The novella's minimalist style and use of ambiguity can be challenging for some readers.

Call to Action

Bartleby's Books is a complex and rewarding work of literature that continues to inspire and provoke readers today. If you have never read the novella, I encourage you to do so. If you have read it before, I invite you to revisit it and discover new insights into human nature and the meaning of life.