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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. According to Captain Scragger, when will Wu Kwok be in Quemony?

2. Why do Robb and Liza leave the ball?

3. Who does Dirk bet on in the prizefight?

4. What is Alexi Zergeyev's title?

5. What does Dirk do to get into May-may's quarters after the two argue over her ball gown?

Short Essay Questions

1. As Zergeyev is judging the gown contest, why does he try to find out who Dirk favors?

2. Why is Dirk surprised to see Wu Fang Choi's ship in Hong Kong waters?

3. Who are the three people that Dirk must send to England to receive an English education.

4. Why do Liza and Tess sail to Macao together?

5. How does Brock know about Dirk's financial problems?

6. How does Dirk feel about the way Culum solves the problem of the knoll?

7. What does Brock do that causes Dirk to accuse him of piracy?

8. Why isn't Sarah able to attend Dirk's ball?

9. How does Gordon Chen build up the Hung Mun in Hong Kong?

10. When Brock is dressing for the ball, what does he try to hide from Liza?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are several instances of symbolism in Tai-Pan, such as the half coins and the relationship between Dirk and May-may. Discuss the presence of symbolism in the novel, including what the symbols are and what they stand for.

Essay Topic 2

What views of women are presented in this book? How do May-may, Mary Sinclair, Liza, and Tess represent those views?

Essay Topic 3

Gordon Chen is Dirk's son just as Culum is, yet he isn't even considered as an heir for The Noble House. Why? What is different about Gordon Chen in comparison to Culum that makes him a poor choice for the future tai pan?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 565 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample