Two Years Before the Mast · Theme
Authority and Discipline
How Two Years Before the Mast develops Authority and Discipline.
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.
Where it surfaces
- 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.
- XXXII
The captain's absolute authority is evident in his refusal to delay for the passenger and his decision to have the watch furl the mainsail without calling all hands, prioritizing the ship's progress and crew's stamina.
- XXXIII
The chapter highlights the strict hierarchy on board, the captain's absolute power, and the mate's challenge to that authority, as well as the punishment of the steward.