How Long to Read Billy Budd

How Long Does it Take to Read Billy Budd?

It takes the average reader 1 hour and 48 minutes to read Billy Budd by Herman Melville

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

Billy Budd is a seaman impressed into service aboard HMS Bellipotent in the year 1797, when the Royal Navy was reeling from two major mutinies and was threatened by the Revolutionary French Republic's military ambitions. He is impressed to this large warship from another, smaller, merchant ship, The Rights of Man. Billy, a foundling from Bristol, has innocence, good looks and a natural charisma that make him popular with the crew. His only physical defect is a stutter which grows worse when under intense emotion. He arouses the antagonism of the ship's master-at-arms, John Claggart. Claggart, while not unattractive, seems somehow "defective or abnormal in the constitution", possessing a "natural depravity." Envy is Claggart's explicitly stated emotion toward Budd, foremost because of his "significant personal beauty," and also for his innocence and general popularity. This leads Claggart to falsely charge Billy with conspiracy to mutiny. When the captain, Edward Fairfax "Starry" Vere, is presented with Claggart's charges, he summons Claggart and Billy to his cabin for a private meeting. Claggart makes his case and Billy, astounded, is unable to respond, due to his stutter. In his extreme frustration he strikes out at Claggart, killing him instantly. Despite Billy's moral innocence, he must face a trial.

How long is Billy Budd?

Billy Budd by Herman Melville is 106 pages long, and a total of 27,136 words.

This makes it 36% the length of the average book. It also has 33% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read Billy Budd Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 2 hours and 28 minutes to read Billy Budd aloud.

What Reading Level is Billy Budd?

Billy Budd is suitable for students ages 10 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy Billy Budd?

Billy Budd by Herman Melville is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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