Typee Prejudice Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

Let us proceed at once; come, throw away all those stupid ideas about the Typees, and hurrah for the lovely valley of the Happars. (4.20)

The confusion of whether Tommo and Toby are headed for the Happar or not allows us to first experience the Typee without their cannibalism rep. Why do you think Melville might have made that choice?

Quote #2

The name may, perhaps, have been given to denote the peculiar ferocity of this clan, and to convey a special stigma along with it. (4.21)

You think you know that character assassination you're always rapping about, Kanye? Wait until someone accuses you of cannibalism. How does this reputation affect Toby and Tommo's interactions with the Typee?

Quote #3

It was quite amusing, too, to see with what earnestness they disclaimed all cannibal propensities on their own part, while they denounced their enemies—the Typees—as inveterate gourmandizers of human flesh. (4.22)

Amusing? Sure, it sounds hilarious, right? Come to think of it, though, did you ever notice how other people's pain is way funnier than your own? See: America's Funniest Home Videos.