Herman Melville (1819-1891) was an American novelist, essayist and poet who wrote a series of influential works during the 19th century His best-known works include Moby-Dick, Billy Budd, Bartleby the Scrivener and a range of other works of fiction and poetry. Melville’s writings have had an enduring impact on American culture and literature, and his style is recognizable for its insight into the depths of the human psyche and for its substantial psychological and moral themes.
Essay topics related to Herman Melville could explore his life and works, themes in his writing, his influence on American culture and literature, or his use of symbolism and style. Here are five example essay topics related to Herman Melville:
1. Examine the psychological implications of Melville's works, focusing on characters such as Bartleby or Ishmael.
2. Analyze the moral questions posed by Melville's writing, examining topics such as justice, revenge and heroism.
3. Discuss the influence of Herman Melville on American culture and literature, considering his contributions to the development of genres such as the romance and psychological novel.
4. Analyze the symbolism and allegory in Melville's work, focusing on works such as Moby-Dick and "Bartleby the Scrivener".
5. Compare and contrast the major works of Herman Melville, considering themes, characters, style, and other elements.