We traced the thematic line of reasoning in the novel by noting how Melville equates knowledge and civilization with corruption in the form of J.Claggart and equates innocence and purity with the life of a sailor removed from the putatively civilizing forces of society. We again focused on narrative form by examining how the allegations of mutiny lodged against Billy Budd are based on hearsay,suspicion, and rumor much like the narrator's tale that comprises the novel. Last, I introduced the arising theme of conscience vs. adherence to the dictates of law and in that regard we discussed capital punishment.