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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 they need to implement Hornblower's suggestion?

2. What do the French send to the Princess?

3. What seems almost surreal to Hornblower?

4. Who will Hornblower be shortly meeting after he says yes to the mission?

5. When is McCool hanged?

Short Essay Questions

1. What do Hornblower and his men do when the prize crew arrives?

2. What man is aboard the Epérance in whom the English seem interested?

3. Describe the situation about McCool's chest and what Hornblower ultimately decides to do.

4. What procedures are followed by Hornblower and others once McCool is aboard the Renown?

5. Why is Hornblower privy to the information passed with the signal flags?

6. Describe Hornblower's actions up until he meets with Marsden.

7. What do the formerly sleeping watch sailors do as Hornblower is contemplating what to do with the ship?

8. How does Reverend Doctor Claudius fit into Hornblower's scheme?

9. What does Hornblower do mostly because he is so tired and what is the response of Marsden?

10. Describe the outcome of the court martial and the events up to when McCool is hanged.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Horatio Hornblower is in some ways a larger-than-life hero. Despite incredible odds, he usually comes out on top, in this book and in the others in the series. Discuss the following:

1. Does having a larger-than-life hero make that person less of a hero? In other words, which is more admirable--a hero who ultimately always "lands on his feet," or one who strives against impossible odds and doesn't always succeed?

2. Does a character have to be successful in order to be a hero? Explain your answer.

3. Choose one other character besides Hornblower who you might call a hero/heroine and explain why you choose that person. Give examples of their actions which you would call heroic.

4. Does every work of fiction have to have a hero? Explain your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Because this novel centers around life at sea, it is quite helpful to have a basic understanding of nautical terminology and the types of ships and their armaments that were used during the early 1800s. Discuss the following:

1. Define ten of the most commonly-used shipboard terms and discuss how those terms are used in HORNBLOWER DURING THE CRISIS.

2. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the ships used in the early 1800s? (Think perhaps about such aspects as speed, pollution, how easily repairs are made, etc...)

3. How is the British navy organized during this period (early 1800s) and how different do you think it is organized today (including how one rises in rank). (This may require some research.)

Essay Topic 3

Honor is a very important concept in this book and in the life of those in the upper class during that era. After Hornblower learns of the large amount of cash in McCool's trunk, his sense of honor does not allow him to keep the cash, though no one else knows about it. Discuss one of the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of honor in HORNBLOWER DURING THE CRISIS. What do you think Hornblower would tell you is the definition of honor if you ask him? Do you think honor can be restored if it is lost?

2. Respond to the following statement using specific examples from the book and your own experience: Honor is one of the most important character traits for anyone in any social strata. First fully define the concept of honor, then discuss whether you believe the preceding statement is true with specific examples from HORNBLOWER DURING THE CRISIS and other books/films, etc... that you have read or experienced.

3. During the era in which Hornblower lives, men could give their word on the basis of being a gentleman and it is assumed to be true. There was no such concept for a lady or anyone of lower social/economic groups. Fully discuss the implications in a society where only gentlemen are considered trustworthy enough to give their word unquestioned.

(see the answer keys)

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