Two Years Before the Mast · Question
How does Two Years Before the Mast develop the theme of Authority and Discipline?
Answer
Two Years Before the Mast by Richard Henry Dana Jr. develops Authority and Discipline across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book explores the absolute power of the captain over the crew, the strict hierarchy aboard ship, and the necessity of discipline for survival, while also critiquing the potential for tyranny and abuse when that power goes unchecked.
Captain Thompson's speech and the mate's orders illustrate the strict hierarchy and command structure aboard ship.
The captain's absolute authority and the strict hierarchy among officers and crew are central to the chapter.
The captain's absolute authority is displayed in the demotion of Mr. F⸺ and the appointment of Jim Hall, highlighting the rigid hierarchy aboard ship.
Evidence in the book
- II
Captain Thompson's speech and the mate's orders illustrate the strict hierarchy and command structure aboard ship.
- Ship's Duties—Tropics
The captain's absolute authority and the strict hierarchy among officers and crew are central to the chapter.
- IV
The captain's absolute authority is displayed in the demotion of Mr. F⸺ and the appointment of Jim Hall, highlighting the rigid hierarchy aboard ship.
- VIII
The captain's harsh response to the crew's petition and his 'down east johnnycake' speech exemplify the authoritarian discipline aboard ship.
- IX
Tensions between the captain and mate are introduced, with the narrator anticipating trouble due to the captain's interference and the mate's leniency.
- XIV
Captain Thompson's severe discipline and the mate's leniency create a toxic dynamic, with the captain tightening control and the crew responding with resentment.
- XV
Captain Thompson's absolute rule is enforced through brutal flogging, demonstrating the tyrannical power aboard ship.
- XXXI
The temperance policy is enforced unequally, with officers allowed rum while sailors are denied, reflecting the arbitrary power of the captain and the class divide aboard ship.
