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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 described in chapter 11 as being "down" on Billy?
(a) John Claggart.
(b) The Dansker.
(c) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(d) Captain Vere.

2. What is the greatest fear in the British Navy?
(a) Capsizing.
(b) Mutiny.
(c) Losing the sextant.
(d) A tsunami.

3. When does the Spithead mutiny occur?
(a) August of 1697.
(b) April of 1797.
(c) January of 1924.
(d) September of 1897.

4. How does the sailor Billy threatened in chapter 14 react to Billy in chapter 15?
(a) He is timid.
(b) He is very friendly.
(c) He refuses to look Billy in the eye.
(d) He is very aggressive.

5. Which famous character does the Victory's quarterdeck decoration commemorate?
(a) Captain Bligh.
(b) Captain Graveling.
(c) Admiral Nelson.
(d) Captain Vere.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which character is known for this neat, careful dress?

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

3. Which Captain is involved in the mutiny at Nore?

4. How does Billy react to Claggart in chapter 10?

5. Who is Billy Budd?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What is a mutiny?

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

4. How does the scourging affect Billy?

5. How does Melville explain moral depravity?

6. Describe Billy Budd.

7. Who is the afterguardsman?

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

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

10. Who is Squeak?

(see the answer keys)

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