# Ahab's Arithmetic; or, the mathematics of Moby-Dick

## TL;DR

This paper explores the mathematical allusions in Herman Melville's Moby-Dick, analyzing their purpose, Melville's mathematical knowledge, and its relation to 19th-century mathematical literacy.

## Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of the mathematical references in Moby-Dick and investigates Melville's mathematical background and its cultural context.

## Key findings

- Identifies numerous mathematical allusions in the novel
- Discusses Melville's mathematical education and influences
- Examines the relationship between the novel's imagery and 19th-century mathematics

## Abstract

Herman Melville's novel Moby-Dick contains a surprising number of mathematical allusions. In this article we explore some of these, as well as discussing the questions that naturally follow: why did Melville choose to use so much mathematical imagery? How did Melville come to acquire the level of mathematical knowledge shown in the novel? And is it commensurate with the general level of mathematical literacy at that time?

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/1903.12102