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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 remains cheerful, despite clandestine attempts of persecution?
(a) Captain Vere.
(b) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(c) Claggart.
(d) Billy.

2. What does Andrew Marvell create that commemorates Captain Vere?
(a) A medallion.
(b) A sculpture.
(c) A bawdy tavern song.
(d) A poem.

3. What elements of ship's life are mirrored in the world outside the ship?
(a) People only obey when forced to do so.
(b) Terror rules the masses.
(c) Life is unfair.
(d) Storms are balanced with calm days.

4. What attitude does Captain Vere gain from his studies?
(a) The penchant for waxing philosophical while on deck.
(b) An air of superiority about the technical aspects of the ship.
(c) An unhealthy interest in omens and the supernatural.
(d) Very firm convictions and a slightly pedantic outlook.

5. What is a possible cause for Claggart's behavior towards Billy?
(a) Envy.
(b) Greed.
(c) Hope.
(d) Fear.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Who is Billy's father?

3. Which character does Squeak play tricks on?

4. How do Captain Vere's officers view their commander's seafaring skills?

5. How does the sailor Billy threatened in chapter 14 react to Billy in chapter 15?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

4. Describe Billy Budd.

5. How do the officers aboard the Bellipotent view Captain Vere?

6. How does Melville explain moral depravity?

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

8. What is a "Handsome Sailor"?

9. Who is Squeak?

10. Describe Admiral Nelson.

(see the answer keys)

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