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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Epilogue.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What type of whale attacks Pollard's boat in Chapter 7?
(a) Sperm whale.
(b) Killer whale.
(c) Humpback whale.
(d) Blue whale.

2. Contrary to what the men think, what island are they actually on in Chapter 9?
(a) Oeno Island.
(b) Pitcairn Island.
(c) Henderson Island.
(d) Ducie Island.

3. How much water do the men collect on December 23?
(a) Twenty liters.
(b) Twenty gallons.
(c) Ten liters.
(d) Ten gallons.

4. How experienced is Benjamin Lawrence in harpooning whales?
(a) He has over ten years of experience.
(b) This is his third whaling trip.
(c) He is a novice.
(d) This is his fourth whaling trip.

5. According to the Preface, what is the primary reason for whale hunting?
(a) Food.
(b) Sport.
(c) Clothing.
(d) Oil.

Short Answer Questions

1. How old is Captain George Pollard, Jr. when he boards the Essex in Chapter 2?

2. Which fictional novel was inspired by the sinking of the Essex?

3. How many men normally would attempt to approach, harpoon, and kill the whale?

4. What is the name given to the event of a harpooned whale dragging a boat at high speeds?

5. How old is Thomas Nickerson when he first boards the Essex?

(see the answer key)

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