Dirk Peters
A powerful crew member whose protection and practical skill repeatedly preserve Augustus and Pym.
He seeks to survive the mutiny and the later disasters, increasingly acting together with Pym.
The book
Who they are in the book
Spoiler-freePym initially describes Peters through his unusual appearance and mixed ancestry. The events then establish him as a resourceful companion, although his actions include violence and the decision to draw fatal lots.
How the book draws them
- Protecting AugustusIn Chapter IV, Peters insists on keeping Augustus aboard when the other prisoners are set adrift. He later intervenes when the mate threatens to throw Augustus overboard.
- Removing the lookoutIn Chapter VII, Peters approaches Allen as if to talk, then throws him over the side. This opens the way for Pym and Augustus to come on deck.
- Making the disguise convincingAt the end of Chapter VII, Peters applies chalk and blood to Pym's face. He reproduces the conspicuous mark across Rogers's eye for the planned impersonation.
- Supporting the fatal lotteryIn Chapter XII, Peters separates Pym and Parker during their fight, then supports Parker's proposal. His decision leaves Pym without the ally he had hoped to find.
- Recovering food from the wreckLater in Chapter XII, Peters descends through the opening cut in the deck. He brings up olives, ham, wine, and a tortoise that the survivors struggle to lift aboard.
- Rescuing Pym on the cliffIn Chapter XXIV, Peters devises a descent using cut footholds, pegs, and tied cloth. When Pym loses his grip, Peters climbs back toward him and catches him.
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