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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 do personalities seem clash more aboard a ship?

2. What does Billy never do before?

3. Which types of books does Captain Vere prefer?

4. What is Billy's position on the ship?

5. Which character is known for his malicious envy?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Claggart mean when he says, "Handsomely done, my lad! And handsome is as handsome does it, too!" ?

2. How does deception destroy both Claggart and Billy?

3. Describe John Claggart.

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

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

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

7. What is Billy's one flaw?

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

9. Who is 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

Provide a brief description of the following literary elements the novel: Introduction, rising action, climax, falling action and denouement (resolution). How does emotion affect the progression of each element?

Essay Topic 2

How does emotional repression affect the development of emotion among the sailors on the Bellipotent? How does Claggart's repression of feelings magnify his anger? What is the consequence of his repression? How does Billy's repression of his feelings magnify his sense of confusion? What is the consequence of his repression?

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.

(see the answer keys)

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