The Nigger of the Narcissus: A Tale of the Sea: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Nigger of the Narcissus: A Tale of the Sea" is a novella by Joseph Conrad that explores the dynamics of a ship's crew as they navigate both literal and metaphorical storms. Central to the narrative is James Wait, a black man from St. Kitts whose perceived weakness and illness evoke complex reactions from his fellow crew members. His presence creates a polarized atmosphere on the ship, with characters like Captain Allistoun and Old Singleton confronting their own mortality in relation to Wait’s situation. The crew includes a variety of personalities, from the religious zealot Podmore, whose fervor becomes a source of tension, to the cynical Donkin, who reveals a darker side by exploiting Wait’s condition. Other notable characters include Belfast, who is misled by Wait’s facade of humility, and Wamibo, who embodies a more primal and unsettling presence. Together, these characters illustrate themes of compassion, rivalry, and the struggle for survival at sea, all while reflecting the socio-cultural tensions of the time. The novella invites readers to consider the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of maritime life.
The Nigger of the Narcissus: A Tale of the Sea: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Joseph Conrad
First published: 1897
Genre: Novel
Locale: Bombay to London
Plot: Psychological
Time: Nineteenth century
James Wait, an indolent and malingering black man from St. Kitts, the last crew member to report aboard the “Narcissus” as it prepares to get under way from Bombay to London by way of the Cape of Good Hope. A kind of Jonah, his emphasis on his illness and approaching death elicits from the crew a subtle and mistaken sympathy which is demoralizing except when work or great danger, such as the storm, draws them together. Wait dies when in sight of land, thereby lifting a burden from the crew and ship, and the ship reaches port without further friction.
Captain Allistoun, Old Singleton, a sailor intuitive and indifferent to the corrupting influence of Wait. During the storm, he remains at the wheel for thirty hours. He has come upon the sinister truth of his mortality. He predicts Wait will die when the ship comes in sight of land.
Podmore, the ship's cook, a religious fanatic scorned by the captain and an embarrassment to the men. He talks of eternity, providence, and rebirth, braves the deck to serve coffee during the storm, and tries to convert Wait.
Donkin, the eternal grumbler, always squealing for his rights, always avoiding work and responsibility. Seemingly devoted to Wait, he watches him die and then steals his money.
Belfast, the sailor who, of all the crew, is most mistakenly influenced by Wait's false humility. He performs many deeds for Wait. In port, he begs for a relic from the dead man's belongings.
Wamibo, a Russian Finn, wild, mysterious, primitive, who seems to gloat over Wait's worsening condition like a fiend over the damned.
Mr. Baker, the first mate. In spite of his menacing utterances, he is liked by the crew. A man with bull neck, steady eyes, and sardonic mouth, he carries on his duties calmly.
Mr. Creighton, the second mate, a fair gentlemanly fellow with a resolute face and a splendid physique.
Charley, the youngest seaman aboard, chastened by learning his youth is insignificant.
Archie, Davis, Knowles, and Two Young Scandinavians, other seamen aboard the Narcissus.