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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. How is Billy's body prepared for burial?

2. Which character becomes very friendly towards Billy in chapter 17?

3. Which two characters are Claggart's messmates?

4. How does Captain Vere treat Billy in chapter 22?

5. What does the chaplain give Billy in chapter 24?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. How does Melville compare the politics that surround Billy's case with Jesus' trial?

4. How does Claggart's expression begin to betray his feelings in chapter 17?

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

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

7. How is Billy like a sacrificial lamb?

8. How does Melville explain the trusting nature of most sailors?

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

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

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 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.

Essay Topic 3

Describe the qualities of the quintessential "Handsome Sailor". How does the "Handsome Sailor" affect the attitudes and actions of the crew of the Bellipotent? What risks are associated with being the "Handsome Sailor"?

(see the answer keys)

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