In Chapter 9 of an 1851 work, a preacher in a New England port city delivers a sermon about this Old Testament prophet

The Final Jeopardy clue for Thursday, January 3, 2025, delved into the category 19th Century Fiction. The clue stated: “In Chapter 9 of an 1851 work, a preacher in a New England port city delivers a sermon about this Old Testament prophet.”

Who is Jonah?

The correct response to this intriguing literary query was: Who is Jonah?

The answer references Moby-Dick by Herman Melville, a classic American novel published in 1851. In Chapter 9, titled “The Sermon,” Father Mapple delivers a powerful sermon in the Whaleman’s Chapel, located in the port city of New Bedford, Massachusetts. His sermon focuses on the story of Jonah, the Old Testament prophet who tried to flee God’s command to prophesy in Nineveh and was swallowed by a great fish. This pivotal chapter sets the tone for the novel’s exploration of themes such as duty, defiance, and the struggle between individual will and divine authority.

The Role of Jonah in Moby-Dick

The story of Jonah serves as an allegorical foundation for Moby-Dick. Jonah’s reluctance to obey God’s command mirrors the struggles of many of the novel’s characters, particularly Captain Ahab. Ahab’s obsessive quest to conquer the white whale, Moby Dick, reflects a similar defiance of higher powers. Father Mapple’s sermon not only underscores the moral and spiritual dimensions of the story but also foreshadows the dire consequences of resisting divine will.

Melville’s choice to include such a detailed and dramatic sermon early in the novel emphasizes the profound influence of religion and morality in the lives of 19th-century seafarers. The themes in Jonah’s tale resonate with the larger narrative, making it an essential element of the novel’s structure and message.

The Symbolism of Father Mapple’s Sermon

Father Mapple’s sermon is more than just a retelling of Jonah’s story; it is a theatrical and symbolic act. Delivered from a pulpit shaped like a ship’s prow, the sermon blurs the line between the sacred and the maritime, reinforcing the novel’s setting and its central focus on life at sea. The preacher himself is a former sailor who embodies the fusion of worldly experience and spiritual reflection.

Through the sermon, Melville explores the universal themes of repentance and redemption. Jonah’s journey from disobedience to submission serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the hubris of challenging divine authority. This lesson becomes particularly poignant when considering the fate of Captain Ahab, whose refusal to yield leads to catastrophic consequences.

Historical and Literary Context

Moby-Dick was written during a period of American literary innovation often referred to as the American Renaissance. Published in 1851, the novel reflects the cultural and religious influences of its time, blending Calvinist theology with Romantic ideals. The story of Jonah, a well-known biblical narrative, would have been familiar to Melville’s contemporary readers, adding a layer of relatability and moral gravitas to the novel.

Melville’s use of biblical allegory and symbolism was characteristic of his style and resonated with the broader literary movements of the 19th century. The inclusion of Father Mapple’s sermon showcases Melville’s skill in weaving theological and philosophical themes into the fabric of his narrative, elevating Moby-Dick beyond a simple adventure tale to a profound exploration of the human condition.

Legacy of the Jonah Sermon

The chapter featuring Father Mapple’s sermon remains one of the most memorable and studied passages in Moby-Dick. It has been praised for its dramatic intensity and its ability to encapsulate the novel’s central themes. The tale of Jonah continues to resonate with readers and scholars alike, offering insights into Melville’s exploration of morality, destiny, and the human spirit.

For fans of literature and Jeopardy alike, this Final Jeopardy clue highlights the enduring significance of Melville’s work and its intricate connections to biblical narratives. It also serves as a reminder of how timeless themes can enrich a story, bridging the gap between past and present, fiction and faith.