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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. How does Ishmael become the only survivor of the wreck of the Pequod?

2. What does Ishmael conclude about whales' olfactory and vocal systems?

3. What makes Ahab return quickly to the Pequod from the Samuel Enderby?

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

5. What is the second objection the Sag Harbor man has for the veracity of the story of Jonah?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

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

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

5. How does Starbuck try to take advantage of Ahab's tears?

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

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

8. What is happening to Queequeg's coffin?

9. Relate the sad story of Pip.

10. What happens when Tashtego accidentally falls into the oil-filled head of the whale?

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 hard life of whalers. Mention the three year expeditions required to fill the ship with valuable whale oil. Discuss the weather conditions that make the trip more dangerous. Detail the need to go out in small boats to get near enough to the whales to harpoon them.

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.

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This section contains 742 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample