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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. When do Shackleton and the men depart in the boat to try to reach civilization?

2. Once they get close to the island, for what do the men search?

3. How long had it been since the men had sailed away from South Georgia Island on their way to the pole?

4. How many men go with Shackleton on the escape attempt?

5. What animal is in relative abundance on the island?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who is chosen to go with Shackleton on the rescue attempt? Why is each person chosen?

2. How do the men decide on the land that they want to target for landing?

3. What do the men think about their chance of rescue through Shackleton's attempt?

4. Why is the Drake Passage so dangerous?

5. Who is first on shore? Why?

6. What is the beach and island like that the men land on? How do the men feel about it?

7. What do the men do to prepare for Shackleton's rescue attempt?

8. How does Shackleton feel as the group sets out in the boat?

9. What do the men do after they land at Elephant Island?

10. What are the boats like that the men are forced to use?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The expedition has various encounters with animals throughout the events. Why are animals an important part of the events of the book? What dangers do the animals present? What benefits do the animals present? Do you agree with the decisions made by the expedition in regards to the animals present/encountered? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 2

The expedition's ship is named the Endurance. How does this name come to symbolize the events of the expedition? In what ways did the men "endure?" Are there any areas or times in which the men did not "endure?" Use examples from the book to back up your answers.

Essay Topic 3

Describe Shackleton's personality. What kind of leader is he? How do you think his leadership skills and personality contributed to the situations that the men found themselves in throughout the book? Do you think he is a effective or ineffective leader?

(see the answer keys)

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