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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. What does Hollom begin that is scandalous?

2. What friend does Maturin encounter on shore?

3. Why does Aubrey contrive to cross the equator on Sunday?

4. What is Maturin's position on board the Surprise?

5. From where are live eels supposedly removed?

Short Essay Questions

1. How do Maturin and Aubrey react differently to the information Allen is offering?

2. How do Aubrey and Maturin react to being on the desolate island?

3. What does Allen say about how whales are used?

4. What does Aubrey learn about Norfolk and how does his haste ultimately slow things down?

5. Who goes ashore and who comes to meet the British and what is decided about Maturin?

6. Where are Martin and Maturin really excited about the idea of shore leave?

7. What does Martin decide about Maturin's condition, and what does Aubrey think?

8. When did Surprise's launch appear and what did Midshipman Honey tell Aubrey?

9. Who does Maturin recruit to assist him in the sick berth area?

10. What does Maturin hear the crew discussing, and what does Maturin do?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Far Side of the World is one book in a series of novels involving Captain Aubrey and Dr. Maturin. Discuss the following.

1. What are a couple advantages of writing a series of novels about the same characters? Use examples.

2. What are a couple disadvantages of writing a series of novels about the same characters? Use examples.

3. Do you prefer to read a standalone book, or a series of books with the same main characters? Explain your response.

4. Do you think it is easier, more difficult, or about the same to write a standalone book versus one in a series? Explain your answer.

Essay Topic 2

Captain Jack Aubrey is in some ways a larger-than-life hero. Despite incredible odds, he usually comes out on top, in Thirteen Gun Salute and in the others in the series. Discuss the following:

1. Does having a larger-than-life hero make that person less of a hero? In other words, which is more admirable--a hero who ultimately always "lands on his feet," or one who strives against impossible odds and doesn't succeed? Which is more interesting?

2. Does a character have to be successful in order to be a hero? Explain your answer.

3. Choose one other character besides Aubrey who you might call a hero/heroine and explain why you choose that person.

4. Does every work of fiction have to have a hero? Explain your answer.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss one of the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of war in The Far Side of the World. Consider the following questions as you write: What characters are most concerned with war? Why? What are some symbols of war? Symbols of nationalism? What characters seem patriotic?

2. Trace and analyze the theme of courage in The Far Side of the World. Which characters struggle with this issue? Why? Which characters seem to possess courage? Why?

3. Trace and analyze the theme of nature versus man in The Far Side of the World. How does the natural world affect the plot? How does it affect the characters? Which characters are most concerned with the natural world? Why is knowledge of the natural world important in that era to sailors?

4. Trace and analyze the theme of superstition in The Far Side of the World. Which characters struggle with this issue? Why? Which characters seem to be superstitious? Why?

(see the answer keys)

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