Good v. Evil – the Loss of Innocence in Billy Budd
In class we were asked what the novel, Billy Budd, is really about. In my opinion, Billy Budd is a story about good and evil and the loss of innocence. Billy’s disturbing innocence is highlighted when he does not believe that a hateful man such as Claggart, is plotting against him. He is well liked by his peers and is referred to as the handsome sailor throughout the novel. Blinded by his own openhearted nature, Billy misjudges the malevolent Claggart as a friend. His demise is brought about by his own weaknesses and the evil influences outside of him and his speechlessness is directly related to his ignorance and innocence. When Claggart accuses him, Billy is at at a loss for words; instead of denying the accusations, Billy remains silent and assaults Claggart, and this what leads to his ultimate downfall.
I agree that the story is about innocence vs. evil, but I also believe there was a theme emphasizing the separation of ones personal feelings from those of the majority. Vere follows the law when convicting Billy of his crime, even if he didnt believe it was the moral thing to do, he did it because he was following orders. The fear of mutiny was also a driving force behind his actions. Also, every one on the ship follows and lives by the rules to maintain order, even if they feel that the rules are unjust.