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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. According to Melville, what makes sailors different from non-sailors?
(a) Sailors do not trust others easily.
(b) Sailors have more freedom.
(c) Sailors are natural liars.
(d) Sailors are more trusting.

2. How does Billy die?
(a) He is shot.
(b) He walks the plank.
(c) He is hung.
(d) He bleeds to death.

3. What is standard procedure in the event of a suspected murder at sea?
(a) Allow the crew to deal with the accused.
(b) Ice the victim and flog the accused.
(c) Call a court of officers, render and carry out judgement.
(d) Confine the accused and contact the admiral.

4. Where is John Claggart buried?
(a) The coast of Timon.
(b) England.
(c) The isle of Mann.
(d) At sea.

5. Where is Captain Vere taken after he is wounded?
(a) To the crow's nest.
(b) To shore.
(c) To the galley.
(d) To his stateroom.

Short Answer Questions

1. How does Meville characterize Billy?

2. In which article are the events on the Bellipotent published?

3. How does Billy react to his impending doom?

4. Which two characters begin to suspect Billy of wrongdoing?

5. How does Captain Vere appear after he leaves Billy in chapter 22?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How do the sailors of the Bellipotent honor Billy's memory?

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

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

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

6. Describe Claggart's funeral.

7. How does Captain Vere view Billy before the foretopman is confronted with the accusation of mutiny?

8. How does Melville compare Billy's death to Jesus' crucifixion?

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

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

(see the answer keys)

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