Peleg

Captain Ahab Peleg is a weathered, no-nonsense retired seaman of considerable years who has invested heavily in the Pequod as one of her principal owners. Having served as chief mate of the vessel for many years before commanding his own ship, he maintains an active interest in her operations and crew, often found at the ship during outfitting. Peleg works alongside his partner Captain Bildad in evaluating recruits and conducting ship's business, wielding a gruff but fair authority. He speaks in plain, salty language peppered with maritime turns of phrase, and his judgments about men and their fitness for whaling are shrewd and direct. Despite his stern demeanor, Peleg shows moments of humor and recognition of genuine character—he can be swayed by moral argument or impressive skill, as when he witnesses Queequeg's harpoon work. His long experience gives him a practical, unsentimental view of the whaling trade and human nature alike.