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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 types of books does Captain Vere prefer?
(a) Technical manuals and Mathematical theorems.
(b) Greek mythology and seafaring stories.
(c) Biography, History and Classical authors.
(d) Shakespearean dramas and Romance novels.

2. Which act does Claggart believe is an intentional attempt to offend him?
(a) The rolled bucket.
(b) The scourging.
(c) The ripped topsail.
(d) The spilled soup.

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

4. In chapter four, which sailor is hailed as the greatest of all time?
(a) Admiral Nelson.
(b) Captain Bligh.
(c) Captain Vere.
(d) Captain Graveling.

5. How do Captain Vere's officers view their commander's seafaring skills?
(a) Riddled with inconsistencies.
(b) Average.
(c) Superior.
(d) Poor.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Billy's position on the ship?

2. What does Billy threaten to do to the sailor in chapter 14?

3. What is Captain Vere's favorite hobby?

4. Why is John Claggart's background a mystery to the crew?

5. Which country is described as ruling the seas?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is a "Handsome Sailor"?

2. Who is the Dansker and how does he help Billy?

3. How does Melville explain moral depravity?

4. Describe Admiral Nelson.

5. What incident is the catalyst for Billy's demise?

6. How do the sailors on board the Bellipotent view John Claggart?

7. How do ruling bodies on board a ship compare to ruling bodies on land?

8. How does Billy's innocence affect his ability to react to the afterguardsman's proposal?

9. Who is the afterguardsman?

10. Which one of the seven deadly sins drives Claggart to destroy Billy?

(see the answer keys)

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