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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. As described in the Preface, in which ocean are the whales hunted?

2. According to the Preface, what is the primary reason for whale hunting?

3. On which country's coast is the Dauphin traveling when it spots the smaller boat?

4. How many men are in the small boat when it is first mentioned in the preface?

5. How long does it take the whale to revive after the collision before preparing to ram the boat again?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Philbrick describe Pollard and his experience in Chapter 2?

2. How are the three whale boats divided and stocked for the trip at the end of Chapter 6?

3. What complaint does the crew bring to Pollard at the end of Chapter 3, and how does he handle it?

4. How does the crew of the Essex deal with the second whale sighted in Chapter 3, and what is a Nantucket sleigh ride?

5. What well known island is part of the Society Islands and why should the crew have been aware of it?

6. What modifications are made to the whale boats in the beginning of Chapter 6?

7. How is a whale killed by sailors?

8. What are some of the facts that Philbrick discloses about the sinking of the Essex in the Preface?

9. What setbacks are the three boats having as they approach the Society Islands at the end of Chapter 7?

10. What happens when the first whale of the trip is sighted?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Whaling Museum features an exhibit for the Essex. Discuss how the sinking of the Essex is initially regarded by the town, the reasons why, and the way that the ship is now remembered. In addition, provide an analysis of how the sperm whales have changed as a result of the whaling that took place during the nineteenth century.

Essay Topic 2

Before the Essex leaves Nantucket, a detailed account of its age, history, and condition is provided.

1) Explain the modifications and repairs that are done to the Essex before it leaves.

2) Describe the history of the ship, including its background, condition, and why it is considered to be lucky.

3) Analyze the connections between the condition of the Essex and its sinking.

4) Analyze Philbrick's style of writing in delivering the information about the Essex.

Essay Topic 3

Herman Melville is inspired by the Essex to write one of the most well known books in literature.

1) Explain how Melville first learns of the Essex's voyage.

2) Describe Melville's experiences in whaling and how they contribute to his book.

3) Analyze the connection of the Essex to Moby Dick along with the similarities and differences in the two epic stories.

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