View a FREE sample

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

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Which mutiny is discussed in chapter five?
(a) Timor.
(b) Nore.
(c) Spithead.
(d) Brighton.

2. How is John Claggart's appearance described in chapter eight?
(a) Handsome and strong with blue eyes and blond hair.
(b) Pale and fat with dark red hair.
(c) Dark and swarthy with long black hair.
(d) Pale and effeminate with curly black hair.

3. What is Billy and Claggart's relationship like before they sail together on the Bellipotent?
(a) The do not know each other before sailing on the Bellepotent.
(b) They are bitter enemies since childhood.
(c) They are friends until Billy falls in love with Claggart's sister.
(d) They are close friends in childhood, but later drift apart.

4. What does Billy never do before?
(a) Speak to the captain.
(b) Swim.
(c) Tell a lie.
(d) Be associated with evil.

5. In chapter 15, which character appears to be conspiring to destroy Billy's character?
(a) The Dansker.
(b) John Claggart.
(c) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(d) Red Whiskers.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why is Billy reprimanded in chapter nine?

2. What does Andrew Marvell create that commemorates Captain Vere?

3. Why does Billy join the British navy?

4. What is Captain Vere's nickname?

5. Who causes the uncomfortable incident in chapter 10?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Claggart mean when he says, "Handsomely done, my lad! And handsome is as handsome does it, too!" ?

2. What changes the face of naval warfare in the 18th century?

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

4. How does the social climate on board a ship compare to the social climate on land?

5. What is a "Handsome Sailor"?

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

7. Why is Claggart "down" on Billy?

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

9. Who is Starry Vere?

10. Describe John Claggart.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 1,138 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample