View a FREE sample

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

Short Answer Questions

1. How do McAdam and Maturin spend their time?

2. What does Clonfert claim?

3. What does Aubrey do with some of his ships before going to Rodriquez?

4. What do the captains also talk about when making plans?

5. What is one interest in mental health Maturin has?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Patrick O'Brian has tried as much as possible to use historical events and facts around which to weave his work of fiction. Discuss the following:

1. Do you think this book qualifies as historical fiction? Why or why not?

2. If much of the events in the book are historical, what surprises you about the way the events play out?

3. Do you think the culture of that era is more or less advanced than you imagined? Explain.

Essay Topic 2

In addition to understanding the war in which O'Brian's novels are set, it is quite helpful to have a basic understanding of nautical terminology and the types of ships and their armaments that were used during the early 1800s. Discuss the following:

1. Define ten of the most commonly-used shipboard terms and discuss how those terms are used in Mauritius.

2. What are the strengths and weaknesses of the ships used in the early 1800s?

3. How is the British navy organized during this period (early 1800s) and how different do you think it is organized today (including how one rises in rank).

4. Compare/contrast one of the naval battles described in the novel with one from WWII.

Essay Topic 3

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?

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 417 words (approx. 2 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample