Chapter 27 Summary

The crew is dispersed except for those who are required to prepare the body for burial and those who are required to manage the sails. Billy's body is rolled into the hammock that has been his bed. All hands are called once more to witness the burial. The body slides into the sea and brings a rush of seagulls. The drums are sounded, and the men return to their stations. A band on the quarterdeck plays a religious tune and the chaplain goes through the customary morning service. By now, the sun has dissolved the vapor that surrounded Billy at the time of his death.

Chapter 27 Analysis

Joseph of Arimathea claimed Jesus' body. He wrapped the body in a clean cloth and placed it in his own tomb. Comparisons to a Christ-like figure are extensive in this chapter. Seagulls, which are white (representing...