Part one of term paper
The story Billy Budd, by Herman Melville, is about the Master-at-Arms, John Claggart, and his hate and jealousy of Billy Budd. Billy Budd, who is unaware of Claggart’s feelings, is a twenty-one year old, foretopeman for the British Fleet. He is a loyal friend and a leader, not by authority, but by example. He is looked up to and well liked ...

Part two of term paper
... when Claggart is telling Billy of his accusations. Captain Vere who doesn’t want the news to be true says, “Speak, man! Speak! Defend yourself!” (802). This appeal makes Billy act strange and begin to make gurgling noises. Billy is determined to perform his duties well, and not to ever get yelled at again. Even after trying to stay out of trouble, Billy continues to slip up. These small threats and incidents establish the tension between Claggart and Billy, and set the stage for a later confr ...