Question 1

What surprising discovery led to the publication of Herman Melville's 'Billy Budd'?

Accepted Answer

Melville's biographer accidentally found the unfinished manuscript in a trunk at his granddaughter's New Jersey house in 1919, leading to its eventual publication in 1924 and a definitive version in 1962.

Question 2

How did director Peter Ustinov respond to attempts to give the film a happy ending?

Accepted Answer

Ustinov sarcastically compared it to reprieving Christ from the Crucifixion in 'Ben Hur', and the tragic ending from Melville's story was retained.

Question 3

What did Terence Stamp realize about Robert Ryan's behavior during filming?

Accepted Answer

Stamp later understood that Ryan kept him at a distance deliberately to create the right tension between their characters.

Question 4

Which awards did 'Billy Budd' receive recognition from in 1963?

Accepted Answer

It was recognized at the BAFTA Awards, Directors Guild of America, Golden Globes, Academy Awards, and Writers Guild of America in 1963.

Question 5

What is the central conflict in 'Billy Budd'?

Accepted Answer

Billy, an innocent seaman in the British Navy in 1797, is accused and tried when the ship's sadistic master-at-arms is murdered.

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Billy Budd

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