Billy as a Christ Figure

Billy Budd, Sailor


Billy is frequently described similar to Christ in both his way and his presence; Melville illustrates him to appear like a religious figure amongst lost men and regulations. He resembles Christ as many different people: in his birth he can be looked at as Moses; in his way and doings he can be looked at as Adam before the fall; and finally in his life, purpose and death, Billy resembles Jesus. All three men in which Billy is portrayed are Christ himself. However, in Billy Budd, Billy’s death, which is portrayed similar to that of Christ’s, is intended to symbolize the death of hope for faith and religion.
Moses, the prophet, was born to free the people of Israel and bring them to the Promised Land. He saved them from persecution, maltreatment and ultimately execution. However, it is his birth which is similar to Billy’s – both men were found in a basket. It is evident that Melville deliberately related Billy and Moses, although in reve...