1. What does Hornblower say is the reason Bush should not be executed and what is Caillard's response? What does the response say to you about his character?

2. How did Hornblower end up where he is at the beginning of the novel?

3. What does Hornblower think about when told Admiral Leighton might die? Do you think his thoughts make him less that honorable?

4. How does the Spanish surgeon feel about Bush being transported and what does he do to mitigate the possible repercussions to Bush? What does this say about the surgeon's character?

5. What happens that slows down the travel?

6. Why might Marie be a better match in some ways for Hornblower than his wife or the Admiral's wife?

7. How do Hornblower and Brown implement an escape?

8. How does Hornblower appeal to Caillard's humanity and what is Caillard's response?

9. What are mostly in Hornblower's thoughts as he waits his future?

10. How does Hornblower decide who will travel to Paris with him? Do you think it was a good choice?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Much attention is given to the treatment of battle wounds, particularly that of Bush's amputated foot. Discuss the following:

1. Compare/contrast the medical remedies used in FLYING COLOURS to that which would be done in our modern world.

2. Many wars are partially, if not completely, determined by factors other than the actual fighting. One of those factors is disease. Research and discuss how epidemics/pandemics have influenced the outcome of three different wars throughout history.

3. Discuss why men died so readily of wounds that would be easily treated today.

Essay Topic 2

At sea, the commander of a vessel is "God," and failure to obey the Captain's orders can subject one to court martial and even execution. Discuss the following:

1. Should Bush be held accountable for the crime of piracy when he was merely following Hornblower's orders?

2. Why do you think mutiny on a ship is punishable by death?

3. Is there ever a justifiable reason for a crew to mutiny?

Essay Topic 3

Hornblower , Bush and Brown lie, steal and cheat their way onto the Witch of Endor in order to effect an escape. Discuss the following:

1. There is a cliché that says "All is fair in love and war." Discuss whether you think that is true in a war situation.

2. There is a cliché that says "All is fair in love and war." Discuss whether you think that is true in a love situation. (Hint: Think about Hornblower hoping that Admiral Leighton has died.)

3. Discuss the irony of their stealing a ship when they've been condemned for piracy.

(see the answer keys)

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