... introducing the scrivener, as he first appeared to me, it is fit I make some mention of myself, my employees, my business, my chambers, and general surroundings; because some such description is indispensable to an adequate understanding of the chief character about to be presented" (Melville 1086). The narrator truly believes that it is his duty to tell the story of Bartleby, and only by giving you the background ... he does not speak in "vanity" but everything he says about himself makes him seem both shallow and vain. He does not speak of Bartleby, Turkey, Nippers and Ginger Nut as hi...

• Word Count: 2175
• Approx Pages: 9
• Grade Level: High School

To eat or not to eat is the dilemma which is reiterated throughout Bartleby the Scrivener: A Story of Wall-Street. This same dilemma presents itself within the minds of the story's characters as well. Settings and characters reinforce the theme of food and feasting. Character's nicknames such as Turkey, Nippers, Mr. Cutlets, and Ginger-nut introduce this theme of food and nurishment. Smell[ing] of eating-houses(p.1112) and having ... gentleness [from the] effects of beer(p.1118), Turkey is descibed ... ...

• Word Count: 896
• Approx Pages: 4
• Grade Level: High School