Herman Melville

Overview

Bartleby, the Scrivener is a short story written by Herman Melville, published in 1853. Melville, known for his epic novel Moby-Dick, explores themes of individualism, conformity, and the alienating effects of modern life in this intriguing tale.

The story is narrated by a lawyer who hires a strange and enigmatic scrivener named Bartleby to work in his law office. While initially efficient and meticulous in his work, Bartleby soon starts refusing to carry out any tasks, uttering his famous phrase, "I would prefer not to." This passive resistance leads to bizarre and disturbing consequences for both Bartleby and the people around him.

Key Points / Ideas

1. Alienation and Individualism:

Melville critiques the dehumanizing effects of modern society and explores the theme of alienation. Bartleby's refusal to conform to societal expectations, even in the face of dire consequences, highlights the fragility of human connection and the desire for personal agency. The author suggests that individualism can lead to isolation and despair.

For example, Bartleby's withdrawal from the world, both physically and emotionally, is evident in his preference for solitude, refusal to engage in social interactions, and his eventual demise in prison. This withdrawal reflects the protagonist's struggle with the disorienting effects of modern life and his rejection of the dehumanizing systems that govern society.

2. Powerlessness and the "Dead Letter Office":

The author underscores the power dynamics between employers and employees, exploring the vulnerability of those in subordinate positions. The lawyer, who initially tolerates Bartleby's idiosyncrasies, eventually realizes that he is trapped in a web of implicit authority. Bartleby's passive resistance gradually erodes the lawyer's sense of control, leaving him feeling helpless and questioning his own position of authority.

The theme of powerlessness is further underscored by the frequent references to the "dead letter office" in the story. This symbolic space represents a realm of forgotten and discarded correspondence, emphasizing the insignificance of the individual in the face of bureaucratic systems and the larger forces at play.

3. The Question of Empathy:

Melville explores the complex nature of human empathy and compassion in the narrative. While the lawyer initially shows sympathy towards Bartleby's situation, his empathy gradually diminishes as he becomes more frustrated with Bartleby's refusal to comply. This raises questions about the limits of compassion and the challenges of understanding and relating to those who resist societal norms.

For instance, when Bartleby is eventually taken to prison, the lawyer visits him and attempts to offer assistance. However, his benevolent intentions are met with Bartleby's repeated refusal to cooperate, leaving the lawyer feeling both helpless and guilty for failing to save him. This interaction reveals the complex interplay between empathy, individuality, and societal expectations.

Conclusion

Bartleby, the Scrivener is a thought-provoking exploration of individualism, conformity, and the dehumanizing effects of modern society. Through Bartleby's passive resistance, Melville presents a critique of the alienating nature of work and the toll it takes on individuals.

The story raises profound questions about the balance between individual agency and societal expectations, illustrating the challenges and consequences of refusing to conform. Despite its brevity, Bartleby, the Scrivener offers deep insights into human nature and invites readers to question the complex dynamics of power, empathy, and individualism in their own lives.

For readers seeking similar works that explore similar themes, they may find Franz Kafka's The Metamorphosis or Fyodor Dostoevsky's Notes from Underground intriguing companions. These works delve into the struggles of isolated individuals and the consequences of resisting societal norms.