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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why does Melville claim that certain men are morally depraved?

2. In chapter 14, what does Billy say to the sailor?

3. Which character is known for his simplicity and naiveté?

4. Which character is known for this neat, careful dress?

5. In chapter four, which sailor is hailed as the greatest of all time?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does the scourging affect Billy?

2. What changes the face of naval warfare in the 18th century?

3. Which one of the seven deadly sins drives Claggart to destroy Billy?

4. Who is Starry Vere?

5. Who is Squeak?

6. How does Melville contrast Billy and Claggart's characters?

7. Why is Claggart "down" on Billy?

8. How does deception destroy both Claggart and Billy?

9. What advice does the Dansker give Billy about his confrontation with the afterguardsman?

10. How do the officers aboard the Bellipotent view Captain Vere?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the role violence plays in the novel. When does violence appear to be justified? When does violence appear to be immoral? How does violence, whether justified or immoral, affect the characters in the novel?

Essay Topic 2

Compare and contrast Billy Budd's character with John Claggart's character. Which characteristics indicate that Billy is the protagonist? Which characteristics indicate that Claggart is the antagonist? What role does innocence, truth, mystery and deception play in their characters?

Essay Topic 3

Compare and contrast Captain Vere, Captain Bligh and Admiral Nelson. How does each man's command style affect his crew? How does each man's personality affect his relationship with his crew, and how does that relationship affect the morale of the crew?

(see the answer keys)

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