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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. Why is the captain of The Rachel appealing for help from the Pequod?

2. How is Ahab's mental condition best described by this point?

3. How does Ahab react to the intrusion by Starbuck?

4. What happens to Ahab's hat as he perches atop the mast?

5. How does Ahab become more irritated as the Pequod sails in the Pacific Ocean?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is occupying the mind of the captain of the Rachel?

2. What is foreshadowed by a dream on Ahab's whaling boat?

3. What further insult does Ahab act out after meeting the Delight?

4. What is Ishmael trying to ascertain as he ponders fossil remains of whales he has read about?

5. After killing the sperm whale, why does Ahab want them to capture and kill the less valuable Right Whale?

6. What ironic thought does Ahab have while looking at Queequeg's coffin?

7. Why does Ahab transfer onto the Samuel Enderby to hear its captain's story?

8. Explain why the Pequod sails in the wrong direction.

9. What is the change in the crew as they head out in search of Moby Dick?

10. Describe Ishmael's arguments against the man who doubts the Bible.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on the literary use of personification. Begin with how Ahab assigns human characteristics to Moby Dick, believing that the whale is a mortal enemy, conscious of a vendetta against him. Then go to children's stories where animal characters think and talk like humans. Discuss personification as a device to explain relationships between humans and animals.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on a character from MOBY DICK you would like to meet. Give specific examples of the behavior of that character and explain why he or she would be someone you would like to know.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on people who take dangerous occupations. In Melville's day, perhaps whaling the most dangerous occupation in the world. Compare that to some dangerous occupations today. Conclude with whether you would ever undertake a really dangerous job.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 749 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample