What central conflict drives Captain Ahab’s actions in 'Moby-Dick'?

Captain Ahab's actions in "Moby-Dick" are primarily driven by his quest for revenge against the whale, Moby Dick, which he perceives as the embodiment of the evil and chaos that has marred his existence. After losing his leg to this formidable creature, Ahab becomes consumed with the need to exact vengeance. His fixation on the whale is not simply about personal loss; it represents a deeper struggle against fate, nature, and the limits of man’s understanding. This central conflict fuels Ahab's relentless pursuit and ultimately leads to tragic consequences, making revenge the driving force behind his actions throughout the novel.

In contrast, the other choices do not encapsulate the core of Ahab's motivation. While fortune and fame may have been factors for some whalers, Ahab’s singular focus is far from material aspirations. The pursuit of knowledge and a struggle for freedom are more abstract themes in the narrative, but they do not specifically define Ahab's conflict. His vengeful obsession with Moby Dick squares him against not only the whale but the very forces of existence, making his quest for revenge the pivotal conflict within the story.