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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) Hope.
(b) Truth.
(c) Innocence.
(d) Peace.

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

3. Where is Billy taken in chapter 19?
(a) Offshore.
(b) The captain's cabin.
(c) The kitchen.
(d) The brig.

4. In chapter 23, when is the crew called together?
(a) An hour past dogwatch.
(b) An hour before dogwatch.
(c) At dogwatch.
(d) At sunset.

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is unusual about Billy's death?

2. Which other characters has odd weather changes occur during his death?

3. What is a drumhead court?

4. How does Billy die?

5. Why does the Captain feel that Billy must be punished?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. What irony is evident in the nature of Captain Vere's death?

3. How does Captain Vere explain Billy's execution to the crew?

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

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

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

7. What explanations are given for the odd nature of Billy's death?

8. How is Billy like a sacrificial lamb?

9. What is the significance of Captain Vere's last words?

10. Why isn't the chaplain worried about Billy's impending judgment?

(see the answer keys)

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