In the epigraph of "The Quaker Graveyard in Nantucket," Lowell reminds us that the Bible charged all humans with taking care of every animal on earth. This might seem like we are being made the kings and queens of the planet, but we pretty quickly see that whenever man gets too prideful about this role, he pays a price. In the poem's case, sailors have challenged the sea and challenged God by killing whales and fighting in wars, both of which go against His commands and cause destruction. As a result of their lack of humility, some men die. And you can't make a much better argument for humility than that.
Questions About Humility
- How have the Quaker sailors failed to remain humble? What was the result of their pride?
- Is the epigraph a challenge, a warning, and/or a command? Why do you think so?
- How do those who visit the shrine of the Lady display humility? What tone does the poem take toward their attitude?
- Does Lowell think it is mankind's nature to stay humble? What in the poem would indicate otherwise?
Chew on This
Lowell takes a pretty Biblical approach to the sin of pride: when you fail to be humble, you risk heavy punishment. We're talking heav-y.
Ahab was pretty cocky to think he could defeat the white whale, but his crew was just following orders. We guess Lowell is saying that failing to be humble can cause others harm, too.