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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 6.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does Pollard think that backtracking to the Galapagos Islands is impossible in Chapter 6?
(a) Because of the distance.
(b) Because of the wind direction.
(c) Because of the uncertainty of how to get back to them.
(d) Because of the waves around the islands.

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

3. How long does it take the crew of the Essex to kill eleven whales in Chapter 4?
(a) Four months.
(b) Two months.
(c) Three months.
(d) Five months.

4. According to one naval architect, what might have helped the Essex withstand the whale's attack?
(a) If the boat was smaller.
(b) If the boat was bigger.
(c) Nothing could have helped it.
(d) If the boat was new.

5. How many people live in Nantucket in 1819?
(a) Six thousand people.
(b) Five thousand people.
(c) Seven thousand people.
(d) Eight thousand people.

Short Answer Questions

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

2. How long does the average hunt for a sperm whale take?

3. How long are the shifts that each man serves on watching the decks during the evenings in Chapter 2?

4. How many miles does it take the crew to set and trim the sails of the Essex?

5. How long is the huge whale that appears off the port bow in Chapter 5?

(see the answer key)

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