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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 does Starbuck send Stubb to report the storm damage to Captain Ahab?

2. What danger does Ishmael say the whale wields in particular?

3. What is the first thing Moby Dick does when he is spotted?

4. Why does Ishmael linger on the Biblical story of Jonah?

5. What is the irony of the coffin?

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. What is so interesting about the perceptions of the Spanish doubloon nailed to the mast?

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

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

6. Why does the encounter with the Bachelor irritate Ahab?

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

8. Explain two instances that Starbuck interprets as signs that God does not support Ahab's revenge on Moby Dick.

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

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 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 2

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on the character of Pip. Describe his position on the Pequod. Detail the reason for his jumping twice out of the whaling boat. Explain how fear left him insane. Finally, explain his usefulness to the plot of MOBY DICK.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay of at least two typed, double-spaced pages on the possible homoerotic overtones in the relationship between Queequeg and Ishmael. Express your opinion as to how you view this relationship. Take into consideration the culture from which Queequeg comes. Do a quick survey of Melville's life to justify your conclusion.

(see the answer keys)

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