[Unaffiliated] Moby-Dick Book Club (session 2)

[These virtual sessions are hosted by the New Bedford Whaling Museum. To register and to download reading guide(s), go here.]

Join the Moby-Dick Book Club, a virtual three-part series exploring Herman Melville’s iconic American novel. Whether you're reading it for the first time or returning to it with fresh eyes, all are welcome to take part in engaging, thought-provoking conversations led by some of the world’s leading Melville scholars.

Marina Wells, Assistant Curator of History & Culture, will moderate the series, which meets virtually on the third Tuesday of the month in September, October, and November 2026 from 5:30 to 6:30pm (EST). These sessions will prepare readers for the 31st Moby-Dick Marathon at the New Bedford Whaling Museum, taking place on January 9, 2027.

Each session centers on a guiding theme and includes a suggested reading schedule—but participants are encouraged to read at their own pace and join when they can. Bring your thoughts, questions, and interpretations to share with fellow readers and Melville experts alike.

Virtual Session Schedule:
Tuesday, September 15, at 5:30pm (EST)
Etymology to Chapter 40
Featured Guests: Professors Mary K Bercaw Edwards & Tim Marr

Tuesday, October 20 at 5:30pm (EST)
Chapter 40 to Chapter 90
Featured Guests: Professors Bob Wallace & Jennifer Baker

Tuesday, November 17 at 5:30pm (EST)
Chapter 91 to the Epilogue
Featured Guests: Professors Wyn Kelley & Tony Mcgowan