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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. What delights Hornblower?

2. Why do the men have to stay inside?

3. What does Hornblower observe in the towns through which they pass?

4. How does Hornblower get assistance from the local pilot?

5. Why do the men have to man the sweeps?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why was the disguise as Dutch customs officials so suitable for where the men were going?

2. What is Hornblower's status at the end of Chapter 17 and how does he view his possible future?

3. What was a major development with Hornblower's wife and how might that have changed his affair with Marie?

4. What is a humorous aspect of the river trip having to do with being on fresh water?

5. What does the Count suggest will be good disguises for the men and how does he help them with the disguise?

6. How has the relationship between the three men changed since being on board ship?

7. What does Hornblower reflect upon about his wife?

8. What happens to Bush upon their return to England and what does Hornblower still fret about?

9. What is the writing style like in Chapters 11 and 12?

10. What characteristics of the three men enhance their disguises?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In Chapter 4, Brown sits down to dinner for the first time in his life at a table with china and silverware. Brown is entirely self-conscious and manages to eat dinner only with difficulty. Discuss one of the following:

1. How do the divisions of class tend to make divisions among men? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a class-based society?

2. In the English military of that era, nobles and gentlemen generally were the officers and very few of the working or peasant class could cross the line into officer territory. What would be the advantages and disadvantages of such a system?

3. Do you think there is a class system in the United States? Does it carry over to the military? Why or why not? (Some research may be required.)

Essay Topic 2

In Chapter 6, over the next days the travel continues as Bush recovers; Hornblower marvels at Bush's incredible constitution. Discuss one of the following:

1. Why do you think some people survive a physical and/or emotional trauma while others with a similar experience do not?

2. Discuss and analyze the traits that would be most helpful in any severe survival situation. Discuss how each of the three men possess some or all of those traits.

3. Compare/contrast yourself to Bush as far as how you would handle the type of situation he is in up through the time of his being granted command of the Witch of Endor.

Essay Topic 3

Surprisingly, the Count announces that Hornblower will remain safe as his guest--he will not summon the authorities. The Count even offers Hornblower a loaded pair of pistols for safety, but Hornblower declines the generous offer. Discuss the following:

1. Trace and analyze the character of the Count and evaluate why you think he is so trusting.

2. The trust offered by the Count seems to trickle down to his servants and family. Discuss how the Count's interaction with his servants engender trust and loyalty from them.

3. Do you think familiarity breeds contempt or good will; i.e., will a wealthy person who is friendly and treats his staff well receive better service than one who is imperious and aloof? Discuss your stance.

(see the answer keys)

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