View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. Why can't Pullings bring the French to combat?

2. Where does Maturin decide to go?

3. To where does the squadron go when it leaves Cape Town?

4. What does the squadron do after the ships were separated?

5. Where did Pym do his raid?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Much attention is given to the treatment of both wounds and illnesses by Maturin and McAdam. Maturin, in particular seems to be far more advanced than the typical doctor of that era. Discuss one of the following:

1. Compare/contrast the medical remedies Maturin uses in Mauritius to that which would be done in our modern world.

2. Many wars are partially, if not completely, determined by factors other than the actual fighting. One of those factors is disease. Research and discuss how epidemics/pandemics have influenced the outcome of three different wars throughout history.

3. Discuss some of the medical remedies Maturin performs/uses that were probably not used in that era.

Essay Topic 2

It seems that though several of the Captains are quite capable and competent, their personal character defects affect either the outcome of a battle or impact their personal lives. Discuss the following:

1. How does Pym's character defect(s) affect the outcome of an important naval battle? Should he be disciplined for his actions?

2. How does Clonfert's character defect(s) affect the outcome of an important military operation?

3. How does Aubrey's character defect(s) affect his personal life?

4. Is it likely to find a group of men (or women) in command who would not have fairly strong egos that could impact their decisions?

Essay Topic 3

Though the author O'Brian may or may not have such personal views on women, the way women are characterized in his naval series is often less than complimentary. Discuss one of the following:

1. Present and analyze the treatment of women in Maurtius Command.

2. O'Brian is trying to be historically accurate, so is his treatment of women in his book(s) justified?

3. Is there any way O'Brian could have presented women in a more positive light and still stayed historically accurate? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 401 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample