Study Guide for "Billy Budd" by Herman Melville

1. Using Billy Budd as an example, define the following literary terms: point of view, irony, paradox, dilemma, symbol, tragic flaw, and theme. -Point of view- The point of view is that of omniscient narration. -Irony- Irony is defined as "the use of words to convey the opposite of their literal meaning". In the beginning of the story Billy is described as an innocent, likeable, and sweet man. Towards the end of the story he is …

…Christ's death is very similar to Billy's death. Claggart is linked to Satan because of his evil acts. Abraham and Isaac are linked to Vere and Billy. Vere's (father) duty overpowers his emotions by sacrificing Billy (son). Saul and David are linked to Billy and Claggart. Saul was very jealous of David and tried to kill him. God the Father is linked to Captain Vere because he is the decision maker and stands for justice.