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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. What does another sailor try to give Billy in chapter 14?
(a) Papers.
(b) Money.
(c) A package of dates.
(d) The wrong rope.

2. What event occurring on land mirrors a naval mutiny?
(a) A public execution.
(b) A democratic election.
(c) A revolution.
(d) A trial.

3. Which character does Squeak play tricks on?
(a) Billy.
(b) Captain Vere.
(c) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(d) Claggart.

4. Which character does Squeak create lies about?
(a) Lieutenant Ratcliffe.
(b) Billy.
(c) Claggart.
(d) Captain Vere.

5. What does Billy threaten to do to the sailor in chapter 14?
(a) Throw him overboard.
(b) Give him a hug.
(c) Tie him up.
(d) Stab him with a paring knife.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. Which types of historical figures are often compared to Billy?

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

4. Where does the first recorded mutiny of the British Navy occur?

5. When does the Spithead mutiny occur?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is a mutiny?

2. How does the social climate on board a ship compare to the social climate on land?

3. How do the sailors on board the Bellipotent view John Claggart?

4. How do ruling bodies on board a ship compare to ruling bodies on land?

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. Describe Captain Vere.

8. Why is Claggart "down" on Billy?

9. Describe Billy Budd.

10. How does Billy's innocence affect his ability to react to the afterguardsman's proposal?

(see the answer keys)

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