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

Short Answer Questions

1. In what condition is the pilot when Surprise is leaving?

2. What happens in São Francisco?

3. What happens when Horner is taken to sick berth?

4. Who rescues Aubrey and Maturin?

5. What does Manu do when a shark appears?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There are a number of interesting questions raised by The Far Side of the World. Questions that Hobbs most likely want readers to consider and think through carefully. Discuss the following:

1. What does the term "author agenda" mean?

2. Name one idea/concept you think may have been a part of the O'Brian's agenda. Analyze that idea throughout the book and discuss O'Brian's probable agenda concerning that idea.

2. Do you think writers who have an agenda for writing should point it out in a preface?

3. How often do you think fiction is written with a clear agenda in mind by the author?

4. Research the life of O'Brian and see if/where his life may have influenced his writing.

Essay Topic 2

Characters are an integral and important part of almost all novels. Discuss the following:

1. Compare/contrast the characters of Maturin and Aubrey. How are they similar? How are they different? Is there a flaw in each of their personalities? Be specific and give examples.

2. Compare/contrast the characters of Martin and Maturin. How do they seem different? Which do you like more? Why? Which one seems more of a well-rounded character?

3. Thoroughly analyze how three of the secondary characters in The Far Side of the World help drive the plot and what their contribution is to the storyline. Are any of the secondary characters unnecessary? Indispensable? Which of the secondary characters are likable? Which are either unlikable or even despicable? Be specific and give examples.

Essay Topic 3

Discuss the following:

1. Who is/are the protagonists of The Far Side of the World and why?

2. Who is/are the antagonists of The Far Side of the World and why?

3. Which 3 secondary characters have the greatest impact on the plot?

4. Are any of the characters dispensable? If so, which ones? Why or why not?

5. Do you think this is a character-driven plot or an action-driven plot? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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