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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. What does the chaplain feel is better than religion for facing judgment?
(a) Truth.
(b) Hope.
(c) Peace.
(d) Innocence.

2. Where are the real events that occur on the Bellipotent recorded?
(a) In Captain Vere's diary.
(b) In the memories of those who witness them.
(c) In top secret naval records.
(d) In the chaplain's diary.

3. Who witnesses Billy's funeral?
(a) The entire crew.
(b) The chaplain and members of the drumhead court.
(c) The chaplain and Captain Vere.
(d) A few of Billy's closest friends.

4. What does Billy cry out a moment before his punishment is carried out?
(a) "God bless Captain Vere!"
(b) "Why has thou forsaken me?"
(c) "Be aware, all ye sinners!"
(d) "Handsomely done, my lads!"

5. What hits Captain Vere in chapter 28?
(a) A wayward jib.
(b) A falling spar.
(c) A musket ball.
(d) A dagger.

Short Answer Questions

1. Which two groups of people does Melville compare in chapter 16?

2. Which two characters are Claggart's messmates?

3. What concerns the officers in chapter 20?

4. How does Billy respond to Claggart's accusation?

5. What is one explanation given for the odd nature of Billy's death?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What is ironic about Billy's impending trial?

3. What explanation does Billy give for being called to the captain's cabin in chapter 19?

4. Why does Captain Vere feel it necessary to deliver the court's verdict to Billy personally?

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

6. How does Melville compare religion to righteous living?

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

8. Why doesn't Billy confront the afterguardsman or Claggart about any of the incidents that occurs?

9. What religious event compares to Billy's funeral?

10. Describe Billy's funeral.

(see the answer keys)

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