"Bartleby the Scrivener" ~by Herman Melville

(#2)
Turkey, Nippers, and Ginger Nut are introduced to the reader before Bartleby. This is done to create a contrast between the characters. They all have various characteristics which emphasize the characters' personalities. Turkey is older and makes mistakes in his work as the day goes on through the afternoon. Nippers was "always deemed the victim of two evil powers - ambition and indigestion" (page 645). Nippers is about twenty-five years old and has trouble working in the morning. Ginger Nut was a young boy who ran errands at the office. Then, Bartleby is introduced. At first, Bartleby appears to be a great worker at any time of the day. However, as the story progresses, Bartleby begins to use the phrase "I would prefer not to" more and more each day. Turkey and Nippers are the stereotypical workers whose behaviors complement each other. Their work behaviors contrast and complement the behaviors of the others including Bartleby.