Fate, Free Will, and Determinism

From Moby Dick by Herman Melville
The novel constantly debates whether human action is free, fated, or chance—epitomized in the loom and mat-making scene.
Chapter 47 (The Mat-Maker)

Ishmael weaves the sword-mat and sees 'chance, free will, and necessity—no wise incompatible—all interweavingly working together.'

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Chapter 132 (The Symphony)

'Is Ahab, Ahab? Is it I, God, or who, that lifts this arm?' Ahab questions whether he is acting freely.

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