Is the war lost or do you feel, like Sharpe, that one should never give up? What makes people think the war is lost?

Describe the new telegraph and how it works. Can you find out how a modern telegraph works in comparison? Where are the telegraphs described in this novel?

Why do you think Sharpe defends his soldier from Ayres when he does not really like the man anyway? Do you think he was right to do so? Should stealing a chicken be a hanging offense? Will such a small offense going unpunished really undermine the Provosts' authority?

What are some of the weapons talked about in this book? Describe three and how they are used and how they differ from today's weapons.

List three different types of soldiers mentioned in this book? What is their purpose in the war and how do...