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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 rescues Aubrey's boat?

2. What war do they learn has erupted?

3. What happens to Maturin?

4. Where does the Constitution lead Java?

5. Who do Maturin and Aubrey take on in Cricket?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why do you think it would be a serious faux pas to not attend the Captain's table to which one is invited in order to manage one's specimens as Maturin almost does?

2. Why do you think the sailors on board La Flèche do not take the war with the United States very seriously?

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

4. Do you think it would be difficult for the men to stay optimistic if after spotting a ship but they do not see you?

5. Why is Aubrey depressed at the news of the war?

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

8. Why do you think Aubrey argues so strenuously to retain his lieutenants and midshipmen?

9. What do you think it means that the officers are paroled and why is this so?

10. What answers Aubrey's unspoken question as to why the Captain of the Java does not first engage in long-range gunfire before closing to board?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

When the Java is conquered by the USS Constitution, the sailors are put in prison while the officers are paroled and given freedom of movement. Discuss the following:

1. Is it fair that only officers are paroled? Why do you think this is the case back then?

2. Do you think the tradition of paroling Officers who are captured in war is still extant today? Why or why not?

3. What institution uses the concept of "parole" today and how does it work? Is it used on supposedly honorable people as it was back then?

Essay Topic 2

When Aubrey arrives in Boston and leaves the USS Constitution, Evans presents a purse of money to Aubrey, which is a collection taken up among the men. Discuss the following:

1. Why do you think the "enemy" gives Aubrey money, when likely they had not much themselves?

2. What do you think prompts generosity to strangers?

3. Do you think more people are generous to homeless persons collecting money on street corners or to more structured charities? Defend your answer.

Essay Topic 3

During this era when the book takes place, if a vessel under the command of a naval officer captures another vessel from a country with whom they are warring or captures a pirate vessel, etc., the crew of the victorious vessel shares in the goods, money and value of the vessel. Discuss the following:

1. Why do you think the British had such a policy in place then?

2. What are the possible abuses that can arise from such a policy?

3. Why do you think this policy is eventually abandoned?

(see the answer keys)

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