Herman Melville's White-Jacket; Or, The World on a Man-of-War is a semi-autobiographical novel written in the mid-19th century, based on the author's experiences serving as an ordinary sailor aboard a U.S. Navy warship. The story centers around perilous voyages and humorous interactions among the crew, as the protagonist, known as "White-Jacket," vividly conveys the life of sailors, the camaraderie among them, and the unique challenges they faced. The narrative opens with an introduction to the protagonist and his peculiar white jacket, which he created to keep warm while the ship was docked in Callao, Peru. However, as he later discovers in harsh weather, the jacket lacks practicality, leading him to begin a humorous yet critical examination of life aboard. Through White-Jacket's perspective, readers are introduced to the various roles and duties on the ship, as well as memorable characters like Jack Chase, a beloved and skilled sailor. Blending humor and critique, White-Jacket offers a lively glimpse into the chaotic world of life at sea.
White Jacket; Or, The World on a Man-of-War | 경남교육 전자도서관