4. If Cambronne is undertaking the mission which Hornblower believes he is doing, why is Hornblower concerned and what does Hornblower determine to do?

5. What has been done while Hornblower was verbally sparring with the captain of the Estrella del Sur?

6. Describe the vessel Hornblower's flagship spies.

7. How does Hornblower encounter the Estrella del Sur's captain and what does Hornblower do?

8. What is the political situation at San Juan and how does this prevent any further action against the Estrella del Sur?

9. After a period of introspection, what does Hornblower conclude Cambronne's plans are?

10. What does Sharpe tell Hornblower about who has hired the Daring.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Discuss one of the following:

1. Trace and analyze one major theme of Admiral Hornblower in the West Indies. Consider the following: How does one character's actions portray the theme you are analyzing? How does the setting contribute to that theme? Is the theme one that you would call a "universal theme"? If so, what other book or novel that you have read also includes this theme. If not, why don't you think it is a "universal" theme?

2. Trace and analyze two secondary themes of Admiral Hornblower in the West Indies. How does one character's actions portray the themes you are analyzing? How does the setting contribute to that theme? Is the theme one that you would call a "universal theme"? If so, what other book or novel that you have read also includes this theme. If not, why don't you think it is a "universal" theme?

3. What benefit is there in discussing and analyzing the themes of a work of fiction? Do you think most authors consciously develop themes in their works? Why or why not? Can there be accidental themes? What do you think is one possible "accidental" theme in Admiral Hornblower in the West Indies. Which theme in ADMIRAL HORNBLOWER IN THE WEST INDIES speaks to you the most in your life? Why?

Essay Topic 2

Honor is a very important concept in this book and in the life of those in the upper class during that era. After Hornblower gives his word to Cambronne about Napoleon's death, Hornblower is beset with guilt and the agony of knowing he has besmirched his honor. Discuss one of the following:

1. Trace and analyze the theme of honor in Admiral Hornblower in the West Indies. What do you think Admiral Hornblower would tell you is the definition of honor if you ask him? Do you think honor can be restored if it is lost? Does Hornblower lose his honor in the lie he tells to Cambronne? Should he?

2. Respond to the following statement using specific examples from the book and your own experience: Honor is one of the most important character traits for anyone in any social strata. First fully define the concept of honor, then discuss whether you believe the preceding statement is true with specific examples from Admiral Hornblower in the West Indies and other books/films, etc. that you have read or experienced.

3. During the era in which Hornblower lives, men could give their word on the basis of being a gentleman and it is assumed to be true. There was no such concept for a lady or anyone of lower social/economic groups. Fully discuss the implications in a society where only gentlemen are considered trustworthy enough to give their word unquestioned.

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 "prize" 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. Do you think the per head prize money for slave vessels help contribute to the ending of slavery? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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