Herman Melville (1819–1891) was an American novelist, short story writer, essayist, and poet, widely recognized for his contributions to American literary Romanticism. Born in New York City, Melville's early years were shaped by financial instability and the death of his father. This led to a brief tenure in teaching and banking before he took to sea in 1839. The experiences amassed during his maritime adventures became the bedrock for his literary works ('The Complete Novels of Herman Melville - All 10 Novels in One Edition'). Melville's writing is characterized by complex symbolism, deep exploration of good and evil, and an intense scrutiny of the human condition. His magnum opus, 'Moby-Dick; or, The Whale' (1851), initially met with a lukewarm reception but has since been hailed as a masterpiece of American literature for its ambitious narrative style and philosophical depth. Melville's oeuvre also includes 'Typee' (1846), 'Omoo' (1847), and 'Billy Budd, Sailor' (posthumously published in 1924), all of which reflect a rich prose and an acute awareness of the intricacies of human nature and society. Despite his talent, Melville's work did not garner substantial acclaim during his life, relegating him to a meager livelihood. However, the 20th-century literary scholars' reassessment of his work led to what is often referred to as the 'Melville Revival,' ensuring his position as a central figure in the American literary canon.