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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 do Diana and Maturin discuss about the local girl Dil?

2. In what direction is the H.M.S. Surprise headed while in the sea near Brazil?

3. In chapter six, how long is Maturin on the rocky islets?

4. What is the general attitude towards Mr. Atkins?

5. What threat does Aubrey make in respect to Maturin?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why might Pullings be disappointed with the actions of Mr. Hervey's uncle while the H.M.S. Surprise is anchored at Bombay?

2. What is Maturin's goal at the duel?

3. What ruse is used to fool the French armada about the strength of the China fleet?

4. Why is Babbinton's promotion only considered an acting appointment?

5. Why is Maturin's meeting with Canning awkward?

6. Why does Aubrey call together the captains when the H.M.S. Surprise returns to the China fleet?

7. How does the East India Company reward Aubrey and the the East India Company?

8. Why does Commodore temper his excitement after the sea victory?

9. What is Maturin's reaction to Dil's death?

10. Is there any point in the long voyage when the people on board are in grave danger?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Stephen Maturin does not have official status aboard the H.M.S. Surprise. Although he serves as the ship's physician, Maturin is not a naval officer. How then does he relate to the crew? How does he treat the men, and what do they think of him?

Essay Topic 2

Both Stephen Maturin and Jack Aubrey assert control of their destinies. Maturin has the advantage of fortune, but Aubrey's heroism gains him position as well. What about the two major female characters? Do Sophia and Diana have control over their own fates? How does each woman assert herself?

Essay Topic 3

How do letters advance the plot of the novel? Think about letters written by any of the major characters. What kind of information does the author give the reader through letters? Are the letters an effective means of moving the plot?

(see the answer keys)

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