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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. With whom is Maturin enamored?

2. In what direction from the ship is the windless area normally encountered?

3. What does Aubrey do to Herapath?

4. What was Aubrey trying to avoid by going north and northwest?

5. How many sailors are allowed liberty at the next stop?

Short Essay Questions

1. A somewhat unique connection is forged between Aubrey and Herapath during the rescue-from-drowning scene. Why do you think this connection occurred?

2. What does Maturin receive from Herapath twice and what does he find out?

3. Who visits Aubrey often and what does he find Aubrey involved in with his initial visit in this book?

4. Where do Maturin and Aubrey go so Aubrey can play cards and how did it go there for Aubrey?

5. What does the ship enter farther north than usual and what happens when it is there?

6. Wogan's viewing of Aubrey's nude body is humorous and a fictional inversion of usual events. Why do you think the scene is an inversion of usual events?

7. Maturin begins to mention Herapath to Wogan as a unique case--she claims an interest because she had seen his fall. It seems simple enough to Maturin, and soon enough he discusses Herapath with Wogan freely. All along, the three maintain their innocence. What do you think it means when Maturin thinks Wogan's explanation is dimple enough?

8. What happens after the ship is put in order from the storm and what does Maturin discover?

9. Who comes to call on Maturin after he leaves the Admiralty and what does he say?

10. What does Maturin decide he must do over the Villiers affair and what does he do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Along with superstitions, the ships crew seem to find mystical meanings in various symbols. Discuss the following:

1. What are six symbols in DESOLATION ISLAND and their meanings. Are the meanings logical or based upon superstitions?

2. Discuss three metaphors in the novel and their impact on the understanding of the plot.

3. Discuss O'Brian's narrative style as it applies to his descriptions. Is his style effective? Interesting? Lively?

Essay Topic 2

Discuss one of the following:

1. Compare/contrast Aubrey's seamanship with that of Grant.

2. Thoroughly analyze the character of Mrs. Wogan, discussing both her strong and weak points and how both affect the outcome of the plot. .

3. Thoroughly analyze the character of Jack Aubrey, discussing both his strong and weak points and how both affect the outcome of the plot.

Essay Topic 3

Most of the entire series of novels concerning Captain Jack Aubrey takes place during the Napoleonic Wars; therefore understanding the political and social situation during that time helps to a greater understanding and appreciation of this book and others in the series. Discuss the following:

1. Research and write an expository essay about how the Napoleonic Wars begin and end.

2. Research and write an expository essay about the naval aspect of the Napoleonic Wars between Britain and France.

3. Compare/Contrast the importance of the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars to the importance of the British navy during either WWI or WWII.

4. Write an expository essay on how the Napoleonic War affects the social culture of one of the following countries: Britain, France, or Spain.

(see the answer keys)

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