About This Book
Moby-Dick: A Norton Critical Edition
Moby-Dick, written by Herman Melville, is one of the most iconic and enduring novels in American literature. This third edition of the Norton Critical Edition, published in 2017, offers a comprehensive and up-to-date documentary source for the study of Moby-Dick. The book is designed to be a go-to resource for students and educators alike, providing a detailed exploration of the novel's themes, characters, and historical context.
Who Uses It?
Primarily, this book is used by students and instructors in literature and English courses at the college and university levels. It's also a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of 19th-century American literature, including professionals looking to delve deeper into literary analysis and historical context.
History and Editions
The third edition of Moby-Dick: A Norton Critical Edition has been meticulously updated to include commentary on the novel from its publication in 1851 to the 21st century. This edition features Hershel Parker's insightful commentary, which provides a rich historical context and critical analysis of the novel. The book includes a wide range of materials such as introductions, essays, and reviews that help students and scholars understand the evolution of Moby-Dick's reception over time.
Author and Other Works
Herman Melville is one of the most celebrated authors in American literature. Born in 1819, Melville is best known for his novels such as "Typee," "Omoo," "Mardi," and "Billy Budd." His writing often explores themes of identity, morality, and the human condition, making him a significant figure in literary history.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Coverage: The book provides a thorough analysis of Moby-Dick, including detailed explanations and examples of its themes, characters, and historical context.
- Critical Commentary: Hershel Parker's commentary offers a deep understanding of the novel's publication history and its reception over time.
- Historical Context: The edition includes a wide range of materials that provide a rich historical context for the novel.
- Educational Resources: This edition is designed to be a valuable resource for students and educators, offering insights into literary analysis and historical context.
Detailed Information
ISBNs and Formats
- ISBN-13: 9780393285000
- eTextbook: Not available (physical edition only)
- Loose-leaf: Not available (physical edition only)
- Rental Options: Available for short-term rentals through eCampus.com
Publication Details
- Publisher: W.W. Norton & Company
- Publication Date: November 14, 2017
- Number of Pages: Varies by edition (typically around 800-1000 pages)
- Language: English
- Item Weight: Approximately 1.2 pounds
- Dimensions: Varies by edition (typically around 6 x 9 inches)
Other Editions and Formats
- First Edition: Published in 1851
- Second Edition: Various reprints and editions available, but not specifically noted for this ISBN.
- Related ISBNs:
- 0393285006 (same as ISBN-13)
- Other editions and formats may be available but are not specifically listed here.
This detailed information section provides a quick reference for all the available formats and sources for Moby-Dick: A Norton Critical Edition, making it easier to find and access the book in the preferred format.






