These bypaths and digressions speak about the beauty of the old ships and naval values as well as the terrific hero-like qualities of Admiral Nelson in which his victories saved his country from Napoleon. He also speaks about the tension and turmoil at that time. Vigilance against mutiny was an obsession and officers did not trust their own crewman. This proves to be foreshadow because the idea of officers not trusting their opwn crewman can be compared similarly to Claggart’s evil doings to the ignorant Billy. These three chapters serve to provide a historical background basis of the story which is important in understanding Billy’s fate at the end of the story.
