"Bartleby, the Scrivener" is a short story by Herman Melville that tells the tale of a Wall Street lawyer and his interactions with a mysterious scrivener named Bartleby. The story explores themes of isolation, individuality, and the dehumanizing effects of modern capitalism, highlighting Bartleby's passive resistance to work and life itself.
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Bartleby is initially hired as a scrivener, but he gradually refuses to perform tasks, opting instead to say, 'I would prefer not to.'
The narrator's struggle to understand Bartleby reflects broader societal issues regarding individual agency and conformity within capitalist society.
The setting of Wall Street symbolizes the impersonal nature of modern work life, contrasting with Bartleby's profound alienation.
Melville's use of irony emphasizes the disconnect between Bartleby's passive resistance and the expectations of productivity in a capitalist society.
The ending of the story leaves readers with unresolved questions about Bartleby's fate, further deepening the themes of existential despair and isolation.
Review Questions
How does Bartleby's refusal to work serve as a critique of modern capitalism?
Bartleby's refusal to perform tasks challenges the values of modern capitalism by highlighting the dehumanizing nature of work. His passive resistance reflects how individuals can become alienated in a system that prioritizes productivity over personal well-being. By opting out of the expected role of a scrivener, Bartleby forces the narrator and readers to confront the ethical implications of a society that values efficiency above all else.
Analyze how isolation manifests in Bartleby's character and its impact on the narrator.
Isolation is a key element in both Bartleby's character and his interactions with the narrator. Bartleby's detachment from society is evident in his refusal to engage with others or fulfill social norms. This isolation creates tension for the narrator, who feels both sympathy and frustration towards Bartleby. The story portrays how this isolation not only affects Bartleby but also impacts the narrator's sense of humanity and responsibility towards others.
Evaluate the significance of the phrase 'I would prefer not to' in relation to themes of choice and agency within the narrative.
The phrase 'I would prefer not to' embodies Bartleby's assertion of choice and agency in an environment that typically demands compliance. By repeatedly using this phrase, Bartleby asserts his autonomy in a society that often overlooks individual desires in favor of productivity. This simple yet profound declaration challenges both the narrator's expectations and societal norms, forcing an examination of what it means to exercise free will in a world governed by economic imperatives. The ambiguity surrounding Bartleby's motivations invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with choice and conformity.
A state of being separated from others, which is a central theme in Bartleby's behavior and attitude throughout the story.
Capitalism: An economic system characterized by private ownership and the pursuit of profit, which serves as a backdrop for the story's exploration of work and alienation.