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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. Who expresses admiration for Aubrey's exploits and tenacity?

2. Who have all taken passage in the same boat?

3. What game does Maturin believe cricket resembles?

4. What happens after several days in the sun?

5. What vessel will Aubrey be captaining once he arrives in England?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Maturin learn that explains the Navy's treatment of Aubrey?

2. Why is it somewhat miraculous that the HMS Leopard pulls into Pulo Batang successfully?

3. What do you think it means that Raikes' body was gnawed upon and do you think that is acceptable?

4. What do you think is a possible cause of La Flèche catching fire and exploding?

5. Why would the men welcome being on board the HMS Java though it is quite crammed with people?

6. Do you think it is helpful for the author to present some background information from other books in the series, particularly the one just preceding this one?

7. What are a couple signs that things are not going well for the men in the boat?

8. What are some events that foreshadow the loss of the La Flèche at the end of Chapter 2?

9. Why do you think the USS Constitution leads the Java on a long chase to sea?

10. Why do you think the HMS Leopard is being converted to a transport?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

There is a rather complicated romantic triangle (polyhedron might be a better description) of Johnson and Villiers, Johnson and Wogan, Wogan and Herapath, and Villiers and Maturin. Discuss the following:

1. Why do you think Wogan is with Herapath? Why would she desire to be with Johnson?

2. How does Villiers come to be with Johnson and accepting American citizenship? Is this a wise move on her part?

3. Why is revealed about Johnson in his public life that should make a woman think twice (or more) times before becoming Romantically involved with Johnson?

4. Do you think Villiers appreciates the sacrifice Maturin is willing to make?

Essay Topic 2

Most of the entire series of novels concerning Captain Jack Aubrey takes place during the Napoleonic Wars; therefore understanding the political and social situation during that time helps to a greater understanding and appreciation of this book and others in the series. Discuss the following:

1. Research and write an expository essay about how the Napoleonic Wars begin and end.

2. Research and write an expository essay about the naval aspect of the Napoleonic Wars between Britain and France.

3. Compare/Contrast the importance of the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars to the importance of the British navy during either WWI or WWII.

4. Write an expository essay on how the Napoleonic War affects the social culture of one of the following countries: Britian, France, or Spain.

Essay Topic 3

Along with superstitions, the ships crew seem to find mystical meanings in various symbols. Discuss the following:

1. What are six symbols in THE FORTUNE IN WAR and their meanings. Are the meanings logical or based upon superstitions?

2. Discuss three metaphors in the novel and their impact on the understanding of the plot.

3. Discuss O'Brian's narrative style as it applies to his descriptions. Is his style effective? Interesting? Lively?

(see the answer keys)

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