Chapter 12 Summary

Claggart looks good; he is not only neat but also careful in his dress. He pales in comparison to Billy's good looks, cheerful health, and frank enjoyment of life. With Billy's simplicity and naiveté, Billy has never willed malice or felt the sting of envy, which no doubt goads Claggart. It seems likely that it is envy that has inspired Claggart's dislike of the "Handsome Sailor," and the evil fire that burns within him will be acted out sooner or later.

Chapter 12 Analysis

Melville inserts this little chapter to reinforce the point he has made about the contrast between Claggart and Budd; He also makes a point of identifying the particular evil that drives Claggart.