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

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the name of the good harbor on Moahu?

2. Approximately when was Clarissa born?

3. To whom does Aubrey transfer care of the livestock in question?

4. To whom does Maturin write a coded letter?

5. What does Maturin discover when he goes to see Clarissa?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

The Surprise encounters a storm at sea. After the storm blows over, Aubrey continues to press the crew hard; Clarissa does not appear at breakfast for several days, and Oakes claims she fell during the storm and wounded her face. Maturin calls on her and sees she has a livid black eye, obviously caused by being punched--Oakes has beat Clarissa. Discuss the following:

1. Is it legal during this time period (1813) for a husband to beat his wife?

2. Why do you think Oakes lies about Clarissa's bruises if it was legal for him to beat her?

3. What does Maturin do about the fact that it is obvious that Oakes beats Clarissa? Do you agree with Maturin's actions? Why or why not?

4. What do you think you would do if you were in the same situation as Maturin? Explain your rationale.

Essay Topic 2

During this era in which THE TRUELOVE 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 TRUELOVE?

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 and become officers. 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 3

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 THE TRUELOVE.

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).

(see the answer keys)

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