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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which character is considered by others to be the most attractive in every aspect?
(a) John Claggart.
(b) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(c) Captain Vere.
(d) Billy Budd.

2. Which character is known for his cheerful disposition?
(a) Captain Vere.
(b) Billy Budd.
(c) John Claggart.
(d) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.

3. How old is Billy?
(a) 17.
(b) 16.
(c) 28.
(d) 21.

4. What is Billy's responsibility on board the ship?
(a) To handle the sails on the foremast.
(b) To plan the day's work and assign tasks to the deck crew.
(c) To be responsible for the ship's cargo and crew.
(d) To maintain order on the lower gun decks.

5. What nickname does Billy's older friend give him?
(a) Billy Boy.
(b) Baby Budd.
(c) Prince William.
(d) Beauty.

Short Answer Questions

1. In chapter 15, which character is Billy's confidant?

2. In chapter four, which naval commander is hailed as one of the greatest strategists of all time?

3. Which act does Claggart believe is an intentional attempt to offend him?

4. Why doesn't Captain Graveling want Billy to leave the ship?

5. Which character remains cheerful, despite clandestine attempts of persecution?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Melville contrast Billy and Claggart's characters?

2. What is a "Handsome Sailor"?

3. Why is Claggart "down" on Billy?

4. What is a mutiny?

5. What advice does the Dansker give Billy about his confrontation with the afterguardsman?

6. How does Billy's threat of physical force when confronted by the afterguardsman foreshadow his downfall?

7. Describe John Claggart.

8. Describe Billy's background.

9. What is the first recorded mutiny in the British navy?

10. Describe Captain Vere.

(see the answer keys)

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