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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. Where do the hill fortifications run?

2. What do the Lossow and Sharpe plan to do after resting?

3. Who does Sharpe think is on the roof?

4. Who is in Lisbon?

5. What happens as Sharpe's message is being sent?

Short Essay Questions

1. Describe Almeida.

2. Describe the scene between Cox and Sharpe about the gold and Sharpe's men.

3. What are the losses and who lives after the explosion?

4. How is Sharpe faring with the wound he receives?

5. Describe what happens in the explosion attempt.

6. Why is Kearsey angry with Sharpe and what is Sharpe's response?

7. Why will the Lines of Torres Vedras stop the French?

8. What does it say about the cause of the explosion and who got in a bread oven?

9. What does Cox say when Sharpe asks permission to leave the fortress?

10. Why does Sharpe think there is no hope for his company and who saves them?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are a number of literary techniques evident in Sharpe's Gold. Discuss the following:

1. Look up and define the literary technique called "narrative contrivance." Where do you think narrative contrivance occurs? Why? Give two examples and analyze them to see if the author has to come up with something to "save the day."

2. Does the use of narrative contrivance diminish the impact of the plot? The believability of the storyline?

3. Is there any other way Cornwell could have a mixture of suspense and action while at the same time making certain the main characters are not killed?

Essay Topic 2

Though this novel is probably more action driven rather than character driven, obviously there are several characters who make the novel what it is. Discuss one of the following:

1. Compare/contrast the characters of Sharpe and El Catolico. Include their goals, sense of honor, abilities, and social skills.

2. Compare/contrast the characters of Wellington and Cox.

3. Thoroughly analyze the character of Richard Sharpe discussing both his strong and weak points and how both affect the outcome of the plot.

Essay Topic 3

In the world of academe, historical fiction is often considered an inferior form of the novel compared to "classic" literature. Discuss the following:

1. Why do you think historical fiction might be considered second-rate compared to the classics?

2. Do you think historical fiction has the same elements as the classics? Why or why not?

3. What are the purposes do you think for people reading "the classics"? What are the purposes for people reading historical fiction? Is one purpose better than another? Explain your response.

4. Would you read historical fiction even outside an educational setting? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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