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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. How accurate is Maturin's watch?

2. What does Aubrey discuss with Maturin at this point in the book?

3. What does Maturin hint to Aubrey at Aubrey's home?

4. Who is waiting to greet the crew of the Ariel as they come ashore?

5. What does Aubrey call the view from the crow's nest?

Short Essay Questions

1. What are a couple ill omens that Aubrey experiences that gives him the jitters?

2. Describe the actions that lead to the wreck of the Ariel.

3. What does Ariel do after leaving Grisholm?

4. Briefly describe the Ariel, the ship of which Aubrey assumes command.

5. Why is Aubrey concerned when there is stormy weather?

6. Describe the guest Swedish officer, Jagiello, who is onboard the Ariel.

7. What happens after the Ariel sails through the narrow Baltic entrance?

8. Describe the chase scene when the Ariel goes after the Minnie.

9. What is the result of the meeting between Maturin and his Godfather?

10. Who is Pellworm; what does he predict and what is the first thing that happens that seem to prove his prediction to be true?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

During this era in which THE SURGEON'S MATE is set, there are strongly-adhered-to class distinctions. Aubrey and Maturin are both gentlemen. Discuss one of the following:

1. How do the divisions of class tend to make divisions among men? What are the advantages and disadvantages of a class-based society? What evidence is there of those advantages and disadvantages in THE SURGEON'S MATE?

2. In the English military of that era, nobles and gentlemen generally were the officers and very few of the working or peasant class could cross the line into officer territory. What would be the advantages and disadvantages of such a system?

3. Do you think there is a class system in the United States? Does it carry over to the military? Why or why not? (Some research may be required.)

Essay Topic 2

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?

4. Which vessel(s) are mentioned in THE SURGEON'S MATE that fall under this maritime law and what are the circumstances of their capture? Does it seem fair?

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 THE SURGEON'S MATE. How is it that women such as Amanda Smith and Diana Villiers receive contempt for sexual relations outside of marriage while the men (such as Aubrey who also commits adultery) do not?

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 as other than whore or wife and still stayed historically accurate? Explain.

(see the answer keys)

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