Billy Budd, Sailor

Why does Melville make Billy’s stutter such an important detail of his character? How does the stutter function as a narrative device?

This novella is often analyzed through a queer studies lens. Which moments in Melville’s characterization of Claggart support the theory of Claggart’s repressed romantic feelings toward Billy Budd?

How does the war influence the narrative, particularly during the most pivotal moments of the story? Describe the underlying commentary about war and the military and how this relates to Melville’s real experiences.

Consider Claggart’s “envy” of Billy Budd. What could envy mean in this sense, and why, from a narrative perspective, are his feelings not simplified to hatred?

Why does Melville call the story “An inside narrative?”

Why does Captain Vere insist on Billy’s execution? What about Vere’s character is revealed in his need to pass this judgment instead of waiting?

Why does Billy accept his fate so peacefully?

Consider the limitations of Melville’s Christian allegory. For example, Billy Budd did not have awareness of a greater plan, and nothing equates to salvation in Melville’s story. Where does the religious allegory start and end?

Why does Melville describe Billy as both Hercules and Adam? In what way does he resemble those figures?