Herman Melville

Born on 1 August 1819, Herman Melville, best known for his masterpiece, Moby-Dick, or, The Whale (1851), was an American novelist, poet and short story writer. Considered one of America’s greatest writers, he barely won much acclaim during his lifetime.

Melville’s novels of the sea such as Typee (1846) and Omoo (1847) are inspired by his own marine adventures. His own struggles and conflicts during his lifetime are manifested beautifully in his artistic vision.

In the latter part of his writing career, Melville’s short stories became more dark and complex, and his prose reflected the materialism and moral degradation of American society in the 19th century.

He died on 28 September 1891, aged 72.