"I am, as I am; whether hideous, or handsome, depends upon who is made judge"

Herman Melville's quote, "I am, as I am; whether ugly, or good-looking, relies on who is made judge," speaks with the subjective nature of understanding and the idea of identity. At its core, this declaration suggests that the evaluation of an individual's qualities is reliant on the perspectives of others, rather than an unbiased reality. Each person analyzes attributes through their own distinct lens, which is shaped by personal experiences, cultural background, social norms, and individual predispositions.

Melville is acknowledging the diverse nature of identity, asserting that a person simply exists in their raw kind ("I am, as I am"), and it is the perceptions of others that append subjective layers of judgment onto them. This reflects the human propensity to classify and specify people in terms of charm, morality, or worth, which is not outright but varies significantly depending upon who is passing judgment.

From a broader viewpoint, this quote invites reflection on social and cultural requirements of beauty and acceptability, which are constantly moving. Qualities deemed "handsome" in one age or culture may be thought about "hideous" in another. This fluidity exposes that principles of charm and worth are not fundamental qualities however are given by the majority or those in power.

Moreover, the quote can be taken as a commentary on the nature of self-perception. It suggests an existential approval of one's essence while recognizing the external forces shaping how we are perceived. By acknowledging the variability in judgment, the quote underscores the importance of self-acceptance and credibility, advocating for comprehending oneself beyond social meanings.

In essence, Melville highlights the incongruities in between internal identity and external understanding, suggesting that true self-awareness needs comprehending that others' judgments are merely reflections of their own perspectives rather than conclusive truths. This point of view motivates people to focus more by themselves understanding and acceptance of self than be overly concerned with the short-term judgments of others.