4. What elements of the story help to increase the suspense up until the end of Chapter 18? How does Billy respond to these events? What reaction do you have to his responses?
One element that builds suspense is when Billy has the encounter with the other sailor suggesting that Billy help plan and join a munity. This builds suspense because the author does not go into very much detail during Billy and the sailor’s conversation, which makes the reader think that there may actually be a plan for a mutiny. Another aspect that builds suspense during this event is that it shows the reader what Billy is like when is nervous and unsure. Later in the chapter, Danskter suggests that Claggart actually set the situation up to see what Billy would say. This combined with the reaction that Billy gives, makes you suspicious of what is about to come. The other element is when Claggart is talking to the Captain and says that he has many other claims against Billy that he can prove, but does not provide specific examples. This creates suspense because you are curious as to what the other claims against Billy are, and what actions the Captain will take to either punish Billy, or Claggart.
8. While Billy waits for his fate to be decided, we do not get to know his thoughts. What might change if we were able to know Billy Budd’s thoughts and feelings? Why do you think Melville chose not to represent them? What is the effect of this?
Not knowing what Billy’s thoughts are creates a lot of suspense and curiosity for the reader. It leaves the reader speculating about what Billy may be thinking. If you were to know what Billy was thinking, the novel wouldn’t be as interesting, because you would know what he was thinking, and you would know what was going to happen. You wouldn’t have any room for creative thinking, which would make the novel not interesting. Melville chose not to include Billy’s thoughts and feelings into the story because he did not want to spoil the suspense leading up to the ending of the story.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgezyEN0ZUcj116LtruMXmOhw0QFgSTCM-NJsnr7nnXwiRvn9W5TIXLHNcCvWHyw2GkVwgfOWPvm-aBeM_uU8DwABVP7UxowKV6v2iYYhMt9toqtZ-ReY2HiqCQMuHAYJc8wr_WOa85c5s/s1600/curious_cat.jpgReason For Picture Choice:
The cat in this picture represents the reader in the story. In the story the author forces us to stay interested in the story by using the technique of suspense. The cat doesn't know what is in the bag, which keeps him curious. "Curiosity killed the cat"
Question 8:
ReplyDeleteI think that you are completely right. Not knowing exactly what Billy is feeling does create a feeling of suspense and curiosity. I think it also lets the reader make up in their mind what they think he would be thinking, which makes them feel more connected to the character, because they think they can relate to them.
I also like your choice of picture. Its so true that Billy is like a curious cat, always searching for something. Sadly it ends up getting him killed, just like the saying!
Your blog post is correct in my opinion. The mysteriousness is created by the elements you mention, and is emphasized by Herman Melville. The reaction that you state is also valid, as it does invoke readers of have a sense of curiosity. In your second question you answered, I do not agree with your statement of the story being revealed if you knew Billy's thoughts, as I think he is oblivious to the events happening around him. His simple mind would not have comprehended all the information I would think. Other than that, I think your answers are correct.
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