White-Jacket: Or, The World in a Man-of-War: Analysis of Major Characters
"White-Jacket: Or, The World in a Man-of-War" is a novel that provides insight into the harsh realities of life aboard a 19th-century U.S. naval frigate, as experienced by the protagonist, White-Jacket, a sensitive common seaman. The narrative follows his journey on the USS Neversink, highlighting his struggles against the brutal practices prevalent in naval life, such as corporal punishment and the distribution of alcohol among the crew. White-Jacket's name derives from a canvas jacket he crafts for himself to combat the cold, symbolizing his resourcefulness and desire for self-protection.
Among the key characters is Jack Chase, an educated British petty officer whose progressive attitude earns him the respect of his fellow sailors, contrasting sharply with the ship's captain, Captain Claret. Claret embodies the authoritarian mindset of naval leadership at the time, often treating seamen with contempt and emphasizing a harsh command style. The interplay between these characters reflects broader themes of authority, respect, and the quest for dignity in oppressive environments. Ultimately, White-Jacket’s experiences on the ship significantly contribute to the movement against flogging in the U.S. Navy, underscoring the novel's historical impact. This exploration provides a compelling glimpse into the complexities of naval life and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.
White-Jacket: Or, The World in a Man-of-War: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Herman Melville
First published: 1850
Genre: Novel
Locale: A vessel of the U.S. Navy
Plot: Adventure
Time: The 1840's
White-Jacket, a common seaman aboard the United States frigate Neversink on a voyage from the Pacific around Cape Horn to the eastern seaboard. White-Jacket gets his name aboard the ship when he sews for himself a canvas jacket for protection against the cold of the Cape. He is a sensitive young man and is greatly disturbed by practices common aboard U.S. naval vessels of the nineteenth century; floggings, tyrannical officers, and issuance of liquor to crew-men all draw his fire. White-Jacket's story ends when he falls overboard off the Virginia capes and throws off the canvas coat to be better able to swim for his life. White-Jacket's account was instrumental in abolishing flogging as punishment in the U.S. Navy.
Jack Chase, a Britisher in United States service aboard the USS Neversink. He is the educated and civil petty officer under whom White-Jacket serves. His good work in getting privileges for the crew earns him the respect of the coarse seamen with whom he sails.
Captain Claret, a typical commander of naval vessels of the nineteenth century. He, along with his officers, feels that naval officers should drive men, not lead them. The captain is stern and usually fair but sometimes peevish and unpredictable. He never feels that common seamen deserve even a modicum of the respect ordinarily paid human beings.