Moby Dick for English Students A1. This edition is not a translation of the work; it is a re-writing with some parts added or omitted, dispensing with many of the characters and situations found in the original novel, and adapted for learning English in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), Level A1, Beginners.
Herman Melville, born on August 1, 1819, in New York City. Melville's early life was a mix of adventure and hardship. His family faced financial struggles, and after his father's death, he worked odd jobs before setting sail on whaling ships in his late teens.
Melville's experiences at sea laid the foundation for his literary career. In 1846, he published his first novel, "Typee," inspired by his time in the Marquesas Islands. "Omoo" followed, drawing from his Pacific travels. These early works garnered attention, but it was "Moby-Dick" (1851) that defined Melville's legacy. The novel, initially met with mixed reviews, delved into the complex themes of obsession, fate, and the human spirit against the backdrop of a whaling expedition.
Despite his later works, like "Bartleby, the Scrivener" and "Billy Budd," not receiving widespread acclaim during his lifetime, Melville's literary reputation underwent a revival in the 20th century. His exploration of profound philosophical and psychological themes in the context of maritime adventures continues to captivate readers, securing his place as one of America's literary giants.
Herman Melville passed away on September 28, 1891, but his legacy endures, and "Moby-Dick" remains an enduring classic in American literature.