At least once in the course of the novel, each side in the U.S. - Japanese conflict attempts to use blackmail to its advantage. These efforts have interesting and varied effects, and it is clear that some people and groups are better at manipulating others in this way.

Part 1) Describe the major cases in the novel when blackmail is used, or its use is planned. What information is used, and how is the target assessed and informed of the situation?

Part 2) Summarize the effectiveness of these blackmail attempts. Speculate about why are some attempts more successful than others.

Part 3) Make and support and assessment whether or not the use of blackmail is acceptable as a part of warfare. Discuss specific uses of blackmail from the book.

Use examples and quotes from the book to support your conclusions.

Essay Topic 2

Just before the Japanese strike on the U.S. fleet and Pacific islands, the U.S. and Russia jointly celebrate the destruction of their last nuclear weapons. Nuclear disarmament is complete between these two superpowers who vied for decades and came close to initiating suicidal nuclear war. This is a goal that many politicians, statesmen, and diplomats dreamed of throughout the cold war. In the novel, it's implications are crucial.

Part 1) Explain how the joint disarmament occurs and why the U.S. and Russia agree to work together on this issue.

Part 2) Describe the reaction in these two countries and throughout the world when the last missiles are destroyed. Is this reaction reasonable and believable?

Part 3) Explain the strategic consequences of the disarmament.

Part 4) Speculate whether the disarmament seen in the novel could really occur between the U.S. and Russia. Explain how these events, or events nearly like them, could occur.

Essay Topic 3

Raizo Yamata is the antagonist of the novel and the foil to Jack Ryan. His far-reaching plans drive most action of the novel and his unique personality affects many events throughout the book.

Part 1) Describe Raizo Yamata as a character. Include a full description of his background and beliefs. Explain how he came to power and how he exercises that power.

Part 2) Explain how Yamata is influenced by his culture.

Part 3) Explain Yamata's overall goals and how and why he is driven to achieve them.

Part 4) Yamata considers himself a patriot. Use evidence from the book to support an assessment for or against this position.

Use examples and quotes from the book to support your conclusions.

(see the answer keys)

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