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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 makes Ahab return quickly to the Pequod from the Samuel Enderby?

2. While Starbuck is talking, what is Ahab thinking?

3. What does the captain of a German whaling ship want from the Pequod?

4. What does Pip do when a whale is harpooned?

5. Where is Ahab on the morning of a clear day as they continue the search for Moby Dick?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Ahab change his attitude toward the leaking casks of whale oil?

2. What is the problem with maritime laws pertaining to whaling?

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

4. What is the evidence that there is still a vestige of humanity left in Ahab?

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

6. How does Ishmael show the further mental deterioration of Ahab?

7. What is the ominous message from the whaling ship Delight?

8. What contest occurs between the Pequod and a German whaling ship?

9. What happens to Fedallah when Moby Dick is harpooned for the first time?

10. Describe the madness of Ahab that loses his humanity.

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 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 2

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on respect. Use the example of Starbuck who disagrees with Ahab's vendetta against a whale but always follows orders, even when he thinks they are wrong. Define why respect for the captain and the crew is necessary to maintain order on a ship.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on how literature helps understand ages past. Use the sights, sounds, and customs of 19th century America as written about in the novel to describe what life was like then. Note in your essay the things like whale oil for lighting that are no longer necessary. Write your opinion about such things as room sharing at an inn and the communal meals in the dining room. Explain why you would or would not like to have lived during those times.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 712 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample