The novel begins by relating the situation of Ishmael, which is located in the port of New Bedford , Mass. , seeking to enlist as a sailor on a whaling ship .
After stopping at the inn Supplier, meets a harpooner color from the islands of the South Sea named Queequeg , who befriends and who takes as servant.
Both are preparing to depart for the island of Nantucket looking to enroll in a boat that is about to sail. The port is docked the " Pequod " , which is seeking crew for an expedition dedicated to whaling .
The ship is commanded by Captain Ahab. When Ishmael sees it , feels it is possessed. Ahab has traveled the oceans for years to hunt whales . Once agreed on the Pacific Ocean with a huge scary and monstrous white whale that destroyed his boat and ripped his leg leaving him crippled for life. Since then Ahab experiencing resentment revenge against the whale called "Moby Dick" .
The novel is a work of deep symbolism . Not only can be described as an adventure novel , but shares characteristics of allegorical epic novel. Try also reflects social issues and human emotions. Use a narrative full of detailed descriptions and transmits a background of virtues and idealism and human failings as obsession and revenge. Moby Dick is considered one of the great works of world literature and includes a great metaphor for the world and human nature . Captain Ahab 's obsession to kill the white whale becomes the eternal struggle of man against an inaccessible enemy and the coexistence of good and evil.