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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. When does Pollard avert potential disaster after crashing into the French Frigate Shoals?

2. What animals are used as food to help the crew stay alive in Chapter 9?

3. Why is the arrival of Chase, Lawrence, and Nickerson in Nantucket unexpected in Chapter 13?

4. When does Cole die?

5. What type of exhibit is given to the Essex at the museum referenced in the Epilogue?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do the men resort to cannibalism in Chapter 11, and what is the irony of their situation?

2. How does Chase prevent the crew from stealing food in Chapter 8?

3. What does the exhibit for the Essex at the Whaling Museum feature?

4. What does Chase put in each boat before leaving Henderson Island and why?

5. What happens at the end of Chapter 11 when lots are drawn in Pollard's boat?

6. What is the crew concerned about as it sees land in the beginning of Chapter 9?

7. How does Chase's boat deal with a shark attack?

8. What is the difference in the way Pollard and Chase are received when they return to Nantucket?

9. What difficulties is Chase's boat having in Chapter 11?

10. What happens to Hendricks' boat?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

After the crew kills its first whale, Philbrick takes the reader step by step through the process of "trying out" a whale.

1) Explain the procedure for gutting a whale, retrieving oil, and which parts are used.

2) Describe how oil and other products are made from the insides of a whale.

3) Analyze the techniques that Philbrick uses in describing the process and the reasons for them.

Essay Topic 2

Philbrick chooses to begin the story with the Dauphin's rescue of Pollard's boat. Use the book as a reference to discuss the reasons why he selects this particular event as the starting point. Also, include a description of the rescue and an analysis of the other facts about the upcoming tragedy that Philbrick discloses in the Preface.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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