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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. What is Billy's position on the ship?

2. What causes Billy to lose his voice on occasion?

3. Which character is known for his cheerful disposition?

4. In chapter 15, which character appears to be conspiring to destroy Billy's character?

5. When does the Spithead mutiny occur?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Admiral Nelson.

2. What incident is the catalyst for Billy's demise?

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

4. Describe Captain Vere.

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

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

7. What is the first recorded mutiny in the British navy?

8. How does the scourging affect Billy?

9. Who is the afterguardsman?

10. What is Captain Vere's favorite hobby?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

How does Melville demonstrate the contrast between good and evil? Which characters and actions are used to represent good and evil? How is the war between good and evil represented in the novel? What affect does this war have on the characters?

Essay Topic 2

What role does the social community on board the Bellipotent play in the novel? How are the characters affected by the extended amount of time they spend living and working together in a relatively small area? How are conflicts resolved among crew members? How do unresolved conflicts affect the characters in the novel?

Essay Topic 3

What role does the fear of mutiny play in the novel? How does the fear of mutiny affect discipline on board 18th century British ships? Describe two forms of discipline utilized on board ships in the 18th century and indicate the strengths and weaknesses of each form of discipline.

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