5. Who is the symbol of evil in the novel and why?

Babo performs the role of the faithful African slave, all the while ordering Benito Cereno about. Babo is considered by some to be a representation of pure evil: someone given to manipulate appearances for his murderous ends. However, there is no denying that Babo is a brilliant tactician, a visionary, and an inspired performer. In some readings, Babo emerges as a tragic hero, defiant of those who would own him and dignified in his death.