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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. Who tells Billy of his sentence?
(a) The admiral.
(b) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(c) The valet.
(d) Captain Vere.

2. How does Claggart die?
(a) Captain Vere shoots him.
(b) Billy hits him.
(c) The valet stabs him.
(d) He hangs himself.

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

4. Where is Billy confined in chapter 24?
(a) In the captain's stateroom.
(b) Between two guns.
(c) In the brig.
(d) In the cargo hold.

5. Why does the Captain feel that Billy must be punished?
(a) The captain is trying to cover up his own mistakes.
(b) Because someone must pay for Claggart's death.
(c) Because Billy is a malicious murderer.
(d) To prevent a mutiny.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Who prepares Billy's body for burial?

3. In chapter 25, what does the crew cry in unison?

4. Where are the real events that occur on the Bellipotent recorded?

5. What is standard procedure in the event of a suspected murder at sea?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

4. What is unusual about Billy's death?

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

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

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

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

9. How is Billy like a sacrificial lamb?

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

(see the answer keys)

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