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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does the Ringle find when it arrives at The Berlings?

2. What does Aubrey confer upon Whewell?

3. Why is Captain Thomas angry at Aubrey?

4. How does Captain Thomas treat his crew?

5. What is the purpose of the fleet being in Whydah?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss the following:

1. What do you think are the characteristics of a successful novel?

2. Analyze and discuss The Commodore based upon the criteria you decide upon in #1 and judge if it is a successful novel. Explain your rationale with specific examples.

3. Do you think the fact that The Commodore falls within the genre of historical fiction changes the criteria upon which its success should be judged? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

During this era in which The Surgeon's Mate is set, there are strongly-adhered-to class distinctions. Aubrey and Maturin are both gentlemen. Discuss one of the following:

1. How do the divisions of class tend to make divisions among men? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a class-based society? What evidence is there of those advantages and disadvantages in The Hundred Days?

2. In the English military of that era, nobles and gentlemen generally were the officers and very few of the working or peasant class could cross the line into officer territory. What would be the advantages and disadvantages of such a system?

3. Do you think there is a class system in the United States? Does it carry over to the military? Why or why not? (Some research may be required.)

Essay Topic 3

Discuss one of the following:

1. Thoroughly analyze how the setting informs the plot in The Commodore.

2. Trace and analyze one major theme of The Commodore. How is the theme represented by symbolism? By the characters' behaviors? By the action?

3. Trace and analyze two secondary themes of The Commodore. How are the themes represented by symbolism? By the characters' behaviors? By the action?

(see the answer keys)

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