- description
- # THE 'GEES
## Overview
"THE 'GEES" is a chapter from the document "[The Apple-Tree Table and Other Sketches](arke:01KG8AJ803DW4WSW6CRCMBBSX2)". It was extracted from the file "the_apple_tree_table_and_other_sketches.txt" and is part of the "[Melville Complete Works](arke:01KG89HMDZKNY753EZE1CJ8HZW)" collection. This chapter details the author's observations and reflections on the people referred to as "'Gees."
## Context
This chapter is situated within the larger work "[The Apple-Tree Table and Other Sketches](arke:01KG8AJ803DW4WSW6CRCMBBSX2)," a collection of writings that likely explore various aspects of life and society, possibly with a focus on maritime experiences, given the subject matter. The chapter follows "THE HAPPY FAILURE" and precedes the backmatter titled "OF THE FIRST EDITION OF THIS BOOK."
## Contents
The chapter "THE 'GEES" delves into the origin and characteristics of the "'Gees," a term derived from "Portugee," referring to Portuguese individuals, specifically those from Fogo in the Cape Verde islands. The text describes their physical attributes, their perceived work ethic, and their role as sailors in the maritime industry. It highlights the derogatory nature of the term "'Gee" among seamen and contrasts the perceived simplicity and resilience of the "'Gees" with other sailors. The author also touches upon their diet, their limited education, and their unique customs, offering a detailed, albeit subjective, ethnographic sketch. The chapter is divided into five chunks, each exploring different facets of the "'Gee" people and their interactions within the seafaring community.
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- THE 'GEES
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- THE 'GEES