The Famous Authors: Herman Melville

Part of the popular Famous Authors Series, this informative and entertaining video biography chronicles the life of 19th century American writer Herman Melville. Combining film archival documents, portraits, and commentary, this fascinating biography not only tells the story of Melville's life, but also explores the social and political background relevant to his work. Poet Richard Wilbur takes viewers to the locales associated with Melville's career as a sailor, author, and customs official and recites passages from Moby Dick and The College Colonel. Also includes dramatized excerpts from Bartleby, Moby Dick, and Billy Budd.