Billy Budd | Suggested Essay Topics

Chapter 1
1. Discuss the ethics of impressment during wartime. Consider the conflicting rights of the nation and the individual. Compare this issue with dilemmas of Melville’s own era—for example, the problem of slavery with respect to the commercial interests of the southern farmers vs. the individual human rights of the slaves.

2. Compare and contrast the characterizations of Captain Graveling and Lieutenant Ratcliffe. Which of the two would you prefer to have as your superior officer? Why?

Chapter 2
1. Billy is likened to Adam before the...


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