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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is Ishmael's objection to artist renditions of the whale?
(a) they are imaginary and not true to life.
(b) they are too realistic.
(c) they are pictured in false colors.
(d) they are painted out of the water.

2. After the whale is captured, what is the next step?
(a) removing its skin.
(b) estimating its weight.
(c) hauling it back to the ship.
(d) cutting off its head and tail.

3. What accommodation is available for Ishmael at the inn in New Bedford?
(a) a bunk in a communal room.
(b) a shared room with a harpooner.
(c) a bench in the dining room.
(d) a closet.

4. How does Ishmael digress after the first whales are spotted?
(a) by discussing the ideal weather for whatling.
(b) by giving a background on Captain Ahab.
(c) by giving a brief commentary on different kinds of whale.
(d) by defining the process of spotting whales.

5. What is the major problem while the whale is tied to the side of the ship?
(a) changing the direction of the ship.
(b) keeping the ropes from breaking.
(c) balancing the ship.
(d) keeping the sharks away.

Short Answer Questions

1. What is Ahab aware of while he stands on the deck of the Pequod?

2. Why does the captain of a whale ship the Pequod meets at sea not want to board the Pequod?

3. What is the subject matter of the sermon in the chapel?

4. How does Ishmael recognize newcomers to whaling on the streets of New Bedford?

5. Which ship does Ishmael select for him and Queequeg to sign on?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Ahab want from the first whaling ship they meet in the ocean?

2. What potential serious problem does Ahab ignore in order to talk to the captain of another whaling ship?

3. Why is the story of Radney and Steelkilt important to the story?

4. How do Starbuck and Stubb react to Ahab's stated mission?

5. What is the amusing account of Queequeg and the wheelbarrow?

6. Describe the appropriate text Father Maple uses in his sermon to the whalers in New Bedford.

7. At what point does Ishmael go into a discussion about whales in general.

8. What is the function of Charity, Bildad's sister, in the preparations for the Pequod's journey?

9. Detail the problems of holding a whale overnight tied to the side of the ship.

10. What does Ahab do to disturb the crew during the night?

(see the answer keys)

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