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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. How does the article about the Bellipotent view Billy's death?
(a) As proof of his guilt.
(b) As an unfortunate side effect of the keelhauling.
(c) As a justifiable punishment.
(d) As proof of his weakness.

2. What does Captain Vere tell the surgeon to call?
(a) Admiral Nelson.
(b) Revelry.
(c) A drumhead court.
(d) To arms.

3. What item from the Bellipotent becomes sacred to the crew?
(a) The torn topsail.
(b) The spar.
(c) The jib.
(d) The medallion.

4. Why doesn't the surgeon question the captain's orders?
(a) He fears the captain might shoot him.
(b) Disobeying orders is mutiny.
(c) He has great respect for the captain.
(d) He is dim-witted and cannot see any problem.

5. Which other characters has odd weather changes occur during his death?
(a) Captain Bligh.
(b) Jesus.
(c) Claggart.
(d) Admiral Nelson.

Short Answer Questions

1. According to the article about the Bellipotent, how is John Claggart murdered?

2. How does Billy die?

3. According to Melville, what makes sailors different from non-sailors?

4. What does the chaplain feel is better than religion for facing judgment?

5. Why does the captain ask Claggart to confront Billy?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Claggart's expression begin to betray his feelings in chapter 17?

2. Why are the events on the Bellipotent distorted in the naval chronicle?

3. Describe Claggart's funeral.

4. How is Billy like a sacrificial lamb?

5. Describe the drumhead court that convenes in chapter 21.

6. How does Billy react to Claggart's accusation?

7. Why does Billy cry out "God bless Captain Vere!" moments before his execution?

8. What misgivings do the surgeon and the other officers have about Billy's impending trial?

9. Why does Billy refuse to believe that Claggart is orchestrating the events that are plaguing him?

10. Why does Captain Vere insist that the drumhead court render judgment according to the Mutiny Act?

(see the answer keys)

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