Question

type your response in the box. one interpretation of the story \the lightning - rod man\ is that melville is criticizing certain christian missionaries of the time. do you agree with this interpretation? if so, describe how you see this theme reflected in the story. if not, discuss a more prominent theme you see presented in the story. cite evidence from the text to support your response.

Explanation:

To answer this, one must analyze the story "The Lightning - Rod Man" by Melville. Look for textual evidence such as character actions, dialogue, and descriptions. If the interpretation about criticizing Christian missionaries is valid, point out relevant passages like the behavior of the Lightning - Rod Man as a symbol. If not, identify and discuss another major theme, like the fear of natural forces or the nature of deception.

Answer:

There is no single - correct answer. It depends on a close reading of the story. One may find evidence to support the interpretation if the Lightning - Rod Man's actions and words are seen as a critique of over - zealous missionaries. For example, if his sales tactics are compared to the aggressive proselytizing of some missionaries. If not, a more prominent theme could be the theme of fear and how people are manipulated into buying false security (the lightning - rods), which has broader implications about human nature and deception.