Billy Budd

The narrative revolves around Billy Budd, a navy sailor who faces a tragic fate after being accused of mutiny by a fellow officer, leading to a swift trial and execution. This final work of Herman Melville, discovered posthumously, explores themes of justice and morality, inspired by a real-life mutiny case from 1842. The 1924 edition, edited by Raymond Weaver, aims to present Melville's complex manuscript while addressing its incomplete nature and the alterations made by his wife. This volume also features the previously omitted "Daniel Orme" chapter.