“Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

First published anonymously in 1853 in “Putnam’s Monthly Magazine,” “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville has become a cornerstone of American literature. Despite initial mixed reviews, the story’s exploration of conformity, isolation, and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism has secured its place. The enigmatic Bartleby, with his stubborn refusal to conform, has become an iconic figure, inspiring countless interpretations and adaptations.

Main Events in “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

1. A Lawyer in Need: A lawyer running a busy office needs extra help with a backlog of legal documents. He seeks reliable clerks to manage the workload.
2. Enter Bartleby, the Quiet Clerk: The lawyer interviews several candidates and settles on a seemingly unassuming man named Bartleby. Bartleby appears quiet and withdrawn but possesses a calm efficiency that impresses the lawyer.
3. A Model Employee (At First): Bartleby throws himself into the work, meticulously copying legal documents. His accuracy and dedication quickly clear a significant portion of the backlog, earning the initial approval of the lawyer.
4. The Uprising of “I Would Prefer Not To”: The lawyer, pleased with Bartleby’s performance, assigns him a new task that falls outside of copying. However, Bartleby delivers a now-famous response: “I would prefer not to.” Surprised and confused, the lawyer initially lets it slide due to Bartleby’s overall good work.
5. A Growing Eccentricity: Bartleby’s refusal to perform tasks beyond copying becomes a recurring theme. He politely but firmly repeats his “I would prefer not to” for any new assignment. His work becomes increasingly limited, causing tension in the office environment.
6. Frustration Among Colleagues: The other clerks, initially curious about Bartleby’s quiet demeanor, become increasingly frustrated by his eccentric behavior and refusal to participate in all aspects of the job.Reasoning with Resistance: The lawyer, concerned about Bartleby’s unusual behavior, attempts to reason with him. He expresses confusion and urges Bartleby to explain his objections. However, Bartleby remains resolute, offering no explanation for his passive resistance.
7. A Disrupted Workflow: Bartleby’s refusal to participate in essential tasks begins to negatively impact the office’s workflow. Deadlines are missed, and clients become frustrated by the delays.
8. Empathy Amidst Annoyance: Despite the disruption and annoyance Bartleby causes, the lawyer wrestles with a strange sense of empathy for him. He is drawn to Bartleby’s quiet defiance and struggles to understand the man behind the enigmatic phrase.
9. A Difficult Decision: The lawyer contemplates firing Bartleby due to the disruption he creates. However, a sense of compassion and an inability to fully grasp Bartleby’s motivations cause him to hesitate.
10. Moving On, Leaving Bartleby Behind: Unable to find a solution, the lawyer ultimately decides to relocate his office to escape the disruptions caused by Bartleby. This effectively leaves Bartleby behind in the old office space.
11. A Destitute Existence: The narrator (now revealed as the lawyer) continues to visit Bartleby after the office relocation. He finds Bartleby living in poverty on a park bench, clinging to his stoic existence.
12. A Solitary End: Bartleby’s passive resistance continues even in his destitute state. He eventually dies alone on the park bench, never revealing the reasons behind his enigmatic behavior.
13. Reflecting on a Mystery: The narrator reflects on Bartleby’s life and his own struggle to understand the man’s motivations. He ponders the meaning of Bartleby’s resistance and what it might represent.
14. A Lingering Question: The story concludes without providing a definitive answer to Bartleby’s enigmatic choices. His past and the reasons behind his passive resistance remain a lingering question mark for the narrator and the reader.

Literary Devices in “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

Device	Explanation	Example
Allusion	Indirect reference to a historical or literary figure, place, or event.	The narrator’s musings on “handling” Bartleby might allude to the biblical story of Jesus calming the storm (representing the lawyer’s attempt to control the disruption Bartleby causes).
Characterization (Flat vs. Round)	Flat characters are one-dimensional with few personality traits, while round characters are more complex and multifaceted.	* Flat: The other clerks are portrayed as one-dimensional figures, mainly focused on their annoyance with Bartleby. * Round: Bartleby, despite his limited dialogue, is a complex character due to his enigmatic behavior and the narrator’s attempt to understand him.
First-Person Narration	The story is told from the perspective of the lawyer, offering a personal and subjective view of events.	“I have been told that some people habitually use the words ‘I would prefer not to’ in this way, implying a slow, lingering refusal, as much as to say, ‘I would very much rather not.'” (Narrator reflecting on Bartleby’s phrase)
Foreshadowing	Hints or clues are planted earlier in the story that suggest future events.	* Bartleby’s initial efficient work ethic might foreshadow his later refusal to perform certain tasks. * The lawyer’s initial surprise at Bartleby’s refusal might foreshadow the growing tension it creates.
Hyperbole	Exaggeration used for emphasis or comic effect.	“They were about to pull down the walls of the entire building, brick by brick” (Narrator’s exaggerated description of the disruption caused by Bartleby).
Irony (Dramatic vs. Situational)	* Dramatic irony: The reader knows something a character doesn’t. * Situational irony: A situation occurs that contradicts expectations or creates a humorous contrast.	* Dramatic irony: The reader understands the deeper meaning of Bartleby’s resistance, while the narrator remains perplexed. * Situational irony: The situation is ironic because Bartleby, initially a seemingly efficient worker, becomes the source of disruption and inefficiency in the office.
Juxtaposition	Placing contrasting ideas or elements side-by-side to create emphasis or tension.	The juxtaposition of Bartleby’s quiet demeanor with his assertive refusal to work (“I would prefer not to”) creates tension and mystery.
Litotes	A form of understatement where an affirmative is expressed by denying its opposite.	“He was not sociable” (Understatement suggesting Bartleby’s extreme social withdrawal).
Motif	A recurring theme or idea throughout the story.	The recurring motif of walls and enclosures is seen in the physical office space, Bartleby’s withdrawn personality, and the societal pressures he seems to resist.
Parallelism	Similar grammatical structures used in successive phrases or sentences to create rhythm or emphasis.	“He never made any mistakes. He was always there” (Parallel structure emphasizing Bartleby’s initial efficiency).
Repetition	The repeated use of words or phrases for emphasis or to create a rhythm.	The constant repetition of Bartleby’s phrase “I would prefer not to” becomes a defining characteristic and a source of both frustration and intrigue.
Rhetorical Question	A question asked for effect, not expecting an answer.	“Who has heard of him? Who knows of him?” (Narrator’s rhetorical questions highlighting Bartleby’s enigmatic existence).
Simile	A comparison between two things using “like” or “as.”	“They clung to him as if they believed that he would somehow prove a successful mediator between them and the lawyer” (Simile describing the other clerks’ initial view of Bartleby).
Symbolism	Objects or actions that carry deeper meaning beyond their literal significance.	Bartleby’s passive resistance can be seen as a symbol of defiance against societal pressures and conformity. The wall surrounding the office space could symbolize societal constraints.
Synaesthesia	A figure of speech where one sense is described in terms of another.	“The dead-wall murmur was the forerunner of revolution” (Narrator describing the sound of the office as a harbinger of change).
Understatement (see Litotes)	A form of understatement where an affirmative is expressed by denying its opposite.
Voice (First-Person vs. Third-Person)	The perspective from which the story is narrated.	The story is narrated in first-person from the perspective of the lawyer.

Characterization in “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

Major Characters:

1. Bartleby: The title character and protagonist of the story, Bartleby is a scrivener who is hired by the narrator to copy legal documents. Initially, he is a diligent worker, but he eventually stops working altogether, saying that he “would prefer not to” do any more work. He becomes increasingly withdrawn and refuses to leave the office, eventually dying there.
2. The Narrator: The wealthy lawyer who employs Bartleby and serves as the main character and narrator of the story. He is sympathetic towards Bartleby at first but becomes increasingly frustrated and agitated by his refusal to work. He tries to reason with Bartleby and even offers him money to leave, but nothing seems to work.

Minor Characters:

1. Turkey: A scrivener who works in the same office as Bartleby. He is prone to making mistakes in his work, and he becomes argumentative and irritable in the afternoons when he has been drinking.
2. Nippers: Another scrivener who works in the same office as Bartleby. He is described as being young and ambitious, but he is also prone to fits of anger and irritability. He suffers from indigestion, which makes him particularly ill-tempered in the mornings.
3. Ginger Nut: The narrator’s errand boy, who is described as being a young boy of about twelve. He is enthusiastic and eager to please, and he often runs errands for the narrator, including fetching food for Bartleby.

Major Themes in “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

1. Alienation and Isolation: One of the major themes in “Bartleby, the Scrivener” is the sense of isolation and loneliness experienced by the characters. Bartleby’s refusal to engage with others or participate in society leads to his ultimate isolation and death, while the narrator’s inability to connect with his employees or sympathize with Bartleby’s situation leaves him feeling emotionally distant from those around him.
2. The Dehumanizing Effects of Capitalism: Melville’s story critiques the capitalist system by portraying how it reduces people to mere cogs in a machine. The narrator views his employees as interchangeable and disposable, valuing them only for their ability to produce work. This leads to a dehumanizing work environment, where employees are not valued as individuals with unique needs and desires.
3. The Power of Passive Resistance: Bartleby’s repeated refrain of “I would prefer not to” is an act of passive resistance that ultimately leads to his downfall. Despite the narrator’s repeated attempts to get him to work or leave, Bartleby refuses to comply, demonstrating the power of passive resistance as a means of challenging authority.
4. The Limits of Sympathy: The story explores the limits of sympathy and compassion in a world that values productivity and efficiency above all else. The narrator sympathizes with Bartleby at first, but as his refusal to work continues, the narrator’s frustration and anger towards him grow. The story suggests that even well-intentioned individuals may be limited in their ability to empathize with those who challenge the status quo.

Writing Style in “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

Characterized by a precise and deliberate prose style, Herman Melville’s “Bartleby, the Scrivener” employs a narrative voice that is both engaging and detached, creating a sense of irony and detachment that underscores the story’s themes of alienation and dehumanization. Melville’s use of vivid and concrete imagery brings the setting of the Wall Street law office to life, while his repetition of key phrases, such as “I prefer not to,” creates a haunting and hypnotic effect that mirrors Bartleby’s passive resistance. The narrative structure of the story, with its use of flashbacks and shifting perspectives, adds complexity and depth to the characters, while the use of satire and humor serves to critique the capitalist society in which the story is set.

Literary Theories and Interpretation of “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

Theory	Interpretation	Example
Social Commentary (Marxism)	The story critiques the dehumanizing effects of capitalism and the alienation of workers within a capitalist system.	* Bartleby’s repetitive tasks represent the monotonous and soul-crushing nature of office work. * His refusal to work beyond copying can be seen as a rebellion against the system that seeks to control him.
Existentialism	The story explores themes of individual freedom, meaninglessness, and the human struggle to find purpose in life.	* Bartleby’s enigmatic existence and passive resistance question societal norms and expectations. * His isolation reflects the existential struggle with finding meaning in an indifferent universe.
Psychoanalysis (Freudian)	The story explores themes of repressed desires, societal constraints, and the unconscious mind.	* Bartleby’s withdrawn personality and repetitive behavior could be interpreted as a manifestation of repressed trauma or mental illness. * His resistance to authority could be seen as a rebellion against societal expectations and the “superego.”
Absurdism	The story explores the absurdity of existence and the lack of inherent meaning in the universe.	* Bartleby’s nonsensical refusal to work highlights the arbitrary nature of societal rules and expectations. * The story’s ambiguous ending reinforces the idea that Bartleby’s motivations may not be fully understood, emphasizing the absurdity of human existence.

Note: These are just a few of the many interpretations of “Bartleby, the Scrivener.” The beauty of literature lies in its ability to be interpreted in different ways based on the reader’s perspective and chosen lens.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• The story can also be interpreted through the lens of individualism vs. conformity, with Bartleby representing a challenge to societal pressures to conform.
• Religious interpretations can explore themes of salvation or martyrdom in Bartleby’s unwavering adherence to his principles.
• The story’s ambiguity allows for multiple interpretations to coexist, leaving the reader to ponder the meaning of Bartleby’s actions and their own place in the world.

Questions and Thesis Statements about “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

1. Question: How does Melville use the character of Bartleby to critique the dehumanizing effects of capitalism? Thesis Statement: Through the character of Bartleby, Herman Melville critiques the dehumanizing effects of capitalism, highlighting how the capitalist system reduces individuals to mere cogs in the machine.
2. Question: How does the narrative structure of “Bartleby, the Scrivener” contribute to the story’s themes of isolation and alienation? Thesis Statement: The narrative structure of “Bartleby, the Scrivener,” with its use of flashbacks and shifting perspectives, contributes to the story’s themes of isolation and alienation by emphasizing the fragmented and disconnected nature of modern life.
3. Question: What is the significance of the story’s setting in a Wall Street law office? Thesis Statement: The Wall Street law office setting of “Bartleby, the Scrivener” serves as a microcosm of capitalist society and highlights the dehumanizing effects of the capitalist system.
4. Question: How does the character of the narrator evolve throughout the course of the story? Thesis Statement: Through his interactions with Bartleby, the narrator of “Bartleby, the Scrivener” undergoes a transformation from a detached observer to a conflicted participant, highlighting the story’s themes of empathy and the struggle to maintain one’s humanity in an indifferent world.
5. Question: How does the story’s ambiguous ending contribute to its overall meaning? Thesis Statement: The ambiguous ending of “Bartleby, the Scrivener” forces the reader to interpret the meaning of Bartleby’s passive resistance and ultimate demise, contributing to the story’s overall critique of capitalist society and the struggle for individual autonomy and creativity.

Short Questions/Answers about “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

• Question: What is the significance of the subtitle, “A Story of Wall Street”?
• Answer: The subtitle, “A Story of Wall Street,” emphasizes the story’s setting and serves as a commentary on the dehumanizing effects of capitalism. The Wall Street law office where the story takes place represents the heart of American capitalism, and the characters in the story are all involved in the capitalist system in some way. Through the story’s setting, Melville critiques the capitalist system and its impact on individuals.
• Question: Why does Bartleby prefer to say “I would prefer not to” rather than “no”?
• Answer: Bartleby’s refusal to say “no” is a reflection of his passive resistance to the capitalist system. By saying “I would prefer not to,” Bartleby avoids a direct confrontation with authority and asserts his own autonomy. This phrase allows Bartleby to express his own desires and preferences without directly disobeying orders or engaging in active resistance.
• Question: What is the significance of Bartleby’s dead letters?
• Answer: Bartleby’s dead letters, or unsent and undeliverable letters, represent a rejection of communication and a rejection of the capitalist system. By refusing to send the letters, Bartleby is rejecting the idea of communication as a means of control and manipulation. The dead letters also represent the idea of wasted potential and the failure of communication to bridge the gap between individuals.
• Question: What is the relationship between the narrator and Bartleby?
• Answer: The relationship between the narrator and Bartleby is complex and multifaceted. At first, the narrator is fascinated by Bartleby’s passive resistance and sees him as an interesting curiosity. However, as Bartleby’s behavior becomes increasingly disruptive, the narrator becomes more conflicted and unsure of how to handle him. Ultimately, the narrator’s attempts to help Bartleby fail, and he is left feeling guilty and haunted by Bartleby’s death. The relationship between the two characters highlights the struggle to maintain one’s humanity in a dehumanizing system and the difficulty of connecting with others in a disconnected and alienated world.

Literary Works Similar to “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

• The Metamorphosis (1915) by Franz Kafka: This seminal novella shares thematic ground with “Bartleby” by delving into transformation and its accompanying alienation. Gregor Samsa’s abrupt metamorphosis into an insect mirrors the unsettling transformation experienced by the narrator in “Axolotl.” Both protagonists lose their former identities and navigate a world that no longer recognizes them.
• The Stranger (1942) by Albert Camus: This philosophical novel explores alienation and existentialism through Meursault, a man who commits a senseless murder and feels indifferent to his actions. Similar to “Bartleby, the Scrivener,” “The Stranger” features protagonists who challenge societal norms and grapple with the meaninglessness of existence.
• One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey: Set in a mental institution, this classic novel explores themes akin to “Bartleby,” including conformity, individuality, and resistance against oppressive systems. Randle McMurphy, the rebellious protagonist, shares similarities with Bartleby in his defiance of authority and societal expectations.
• The Trial (1925) by Franz Kafka: This enigmatic novel depicts Josef K.’s arrest and prosecution for an unspecified crime. Both “The Trial” and “Bartleby, the Scrivener” create unsettling and absurd situations as their protagonists navigate seemingly nonsensical systems.
• The Invisible Man (1952) by Ralph Ellison: While the specific societal context differs, The Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison resonates thematically with “Bartleby.” Both novels explore alienation and the struggle to find one’s place in society, with “The Invisible Man” focusing on the experiences of an unnamed African American man facing racism in New York City.

Suggested Readings: “Bartleby, the Scrivener” by Herman Melville

Articles:

• Clayton, Michelle. “Introduction to Julio Cortázar, The Situation of the Latin American Intellectual.” Journal of Latin American Cultural Studies 19.3 (2010): 335-339. [While this article focuses on Cortázar, it provides valuable context for exploring themes of alienation and absurdity, relevant to “Bartleby.”
• Ring, Annie. “THE POLITICS OF ‘PRIMARY REJECTION’IN HERMAN MELVILLE’S BARTLEBY AND HITO STEYERL’S HOW NOT TO BE SEEN: RACISM,(IL) LEGIBILITY, SURVEILLANCE, AND DETERMINATE NEGATION.” German Life and Letters 74.1 (2021): 67-89.

Websites:

• The Melville Society International: https://www.melvillesociety.org/ This website offers a wealth of resources on Melville’s work, including critical essays and information on scholarship related to “Bartleby, the Scrivener.”
• The American Transcendentalist Web: https://archive.vcu.edu/english/engweb/transcendentalism/index.html While not solely focused on Melville, this website provides context for the philosophical and social movements that influenced American literature in his time, providing a backdrop for understanding “Bartleby.”