How do you move a ships sails?

Answer 1

IN a traditional sailing vessel sails are moved and controlled by lines. those that raise and lower the sails are halyards and downhauls, those that raise a square sail are bunt lines. The lines used to shape the sails are called sheets (from the foot of the sail to the stern) and tacks (from the foot of the sail to the bow). Braces are used to "brace the yards", turn them to the best angle to the wind.

In some of the new sail designs the sails are remote controlled and have some very untraditional shapes.