Billy Budd

Billy Budd is a tragic story; yet can any story in which innocence is not corrupted be called tragic?

Billy’s character is one of almost divine purity. Perhaps no real man has had his degree of virtue, Claggart is evil as few men are evil. Captain Vere, who is merely human, cannot contend with such forces.

The strength of Billy Budd, however, prevails over all.
(back cover)