Imagery encompasses a broad topic that includes both visual imagery and sensual imagery or imagery that one feels. Melville elicits feelings of confusion, tension, and fear throughout the novella, “Benito Cereno.” In particular, the shaving scene involving Babo, Captain Delano and Benito Cereno entices readers to feel fearful, and perplexed. Through the use of visual and sensory imagery, Melville adds drama to the adventure story, while also foreshadowing a future discovery of a former mutiny on the ship.

Visual imagery adds to Melville’s talent as an author by placing the reader within the novella, itself. For instance, “[The servant] made a motion as if waiting his master’s good pleasure,” (Melville 70). As an omniscient reader, I know