Summary of Bartleby, the Scrivener

Explore the mysterious tale of Bartleby, the Scrivener, in this concise summary of Herman Melville's classic short story. Set in a bustling law office in mid-19th century New York City, Bartleby introduces readers to a peculiar and enigmatic character who challenges the norms of society.

As the story unfolds, Bartleby's passive resistance and refusal to conform to traditional expectations captivate both his colleagues and readers alike. Through his enigmatic behavior, Bartleby raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of work, identity, and the human condition.

Join us as we delve into the complexities of Bartleby's character and the profound impact he has on those around him. Through this summary, readers will gain a deeper understanding of Melville's exploration of existential themes and the enigmatic nature of Bartleby himself.

Bartleby is a mysterious and enigmatic character who works as a scrivener in a law office. He initially appears to be a diligent and efficient worker, but soon starts refusing to perform tasks with the repeated phrase "I would prefer not to." His passive resistance and refusal to conform to societal norms make him a complex and intriguing figure.

The unnamed narrator of the story is Bartleby's employer and the one who first hires him. He is initially sympathetic towards Bartleby's strange behavior, but eventually becomes frustrated and perplexed by his refusal to work. The narrator's attempts to understand Bartleby's motivations and help him lead to a deeper exploration of human nature and society.

Turkey and Nippers are two other scriveners who work in the same office as Bartleby. Turkey is an older man who is efficient in the morning but becomes drunk and unreliable in the afternoon, while Nippers is a younger man who suffers from bouts of indigestion that affect his work. Their contrasting personalities and quirks provide a stark contrast to Bartleby's own peculiar behavior.

At the beginning of the story, the narrator, who is a lawyer, hires a new employee named Bartleby to work as a scrivener in his office. Bartleby is described as being a quiet and mysterious man who keeps to himself.

As Bartleby settles into his new job, the narrator notices that he is a very diligent worker, but also exhibits some odd behaviors. Bartleby refuses to do certain tasks and often responds with the phrase "I would prefer not to."

When the narrator decides to move his office to a new location, he offers to let Bartleby come along. However, Bartleby chooses to stay behind in the old office, much to the narrator's confusion.

Despite the narrator's efforts to convince Bartleby to move to the new office, Bartleby stubbornly refuses to leave the old building. The narrator eventually gives up and allows Bartleby to remain in the abandoned office.

Over time, Bartleby's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and he stops working altogether. The narrator tries to help him by offering him money and a place to stay, but Bartleby refuses all assistance.

One day, the narrator learns that Bartleby has been living in the old office without permission. The landlord wants him removed, so the narrator arranges for Bartleby to be taken to the Tombs, a prison in New York City.

While in the Tombs, Bartleby continues to refuse to eat or speak to anyone. Eventually, he dies of starvation, leaving the narrator feeling guilty for not being able to help him.

Despite Bartleby's tragic end, his enigmatic character leaves a lasting impression on the narrator. The story of Bartleby serves as a reflection on society's treatment of those who are different or in need of help.

In conclusion, Bartleby, the Scrivener is a thought-provoking and enigmatic story that explores themes of isolation, conformity, and the human condition. Through the character of Bartleby, Melville challenges readers to question the nature of work, society, and individuality.As we reflect on Bartleby's refusal to conform and his ultimate demise, we are left to ponder the complexities of human behavior and the consequences of resisting societal norms. Bartleby's story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding, and the need for connection in a world that often values conformity above all else.