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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 the men confined below decks do?

2. What skill does Hornblower mention that he possesses?

3. Why does Baddlestone turn the papers over to Hornblower?

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

5. What is the sentence passed upon McCool?

Short Essay Questions

1. How do the Englishmen get over to the French brig?

2. What are the setting and circumstances at the opening of this short story?

3. What indications are there that the weighted packet Hornblower takes off the French brig might be important?

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

5. What does Hornblower do while the men are destroying the ship?

6. Describe Meadows.

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

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

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

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss one of the following:

1. Define irony in literary terms. Discuss the irony of the situation with Hornblower providing transportation to Napoleon III in "The Last Encounter."

2. Define symbolism in literary terms. Discuss the use of and meaning of Captain Baddlestone's name, Hornblower's name, the weighted packet, the vessel named Princess...and three other symbols you choose to analyze.

3. Discuss the use of foreshadowing in literature. What is the purpose of foreshadowing? Cite 3 examples of foreshadowing and how it is used to indicate events to come in the Hornblower During Crisis, "Hornblower's Temptation, and "The Last Encounter."

Essay Topic 2

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 3

During wartime then, and even into the 20th century, a death sentence is often carried out within hours or days after the sentencing among the military. Discuss the following:

1. Why do you think a death sentence is executed so quickly among the military during wartime?

2. Do you think it is right that the soldier/sailor has no recourse to appeal a sentence of death if he is convicted of certain crimes in wartime?

3. Do you think McCool should have been allowed an appeal? Explain your answer fully.

(see the answer keys)

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