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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. What did the crew of the burned Hornet eat once the rations of food ran out?

2. What critters prevented Twain from getting any sleep on his trip to Hawaii in chapter 18?

3. According to the story that Twain told in chapter 21, what was the gold-seeking Kanui's financial situation when he passed away?

4. What state did the Hornet leave on January 15?

5. Based on the information Twain provided in chapter 19, which Roman town left their remains buried in hardened lava?

Short Essay Questions

1. Who was Charlton and why was he sued in Hawaiian courts?

2. What reaction did Paulet have to Charlton's situation?

3. According to Twain, what was the source of the Hawaiian's use of their ancient customs during the funeral in chapter 16?

4. When did Twain view the volcano of Kilauea and how was it transformed?

5. What caused the Hornet to burn in the first place?

6. What description did Twain give of Kona's volcanic ground?

7. How did Twain display his awareness of the responsibility he had as a journalist when he wrote about his voyage on the Boomerang?

8. Why was the attempt by Twain and Mr. Brown to get food in chapter 20 humorous?

9. Who did Twain interview about the tragic circumstances of the Hornet, how long was the crew lost at sea, and how many survivors were there?

10. Which story was told about General Van Valkenburgh in the postscript of chapter 17?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Mark Twain used his unique writing style to present his trip to Hawaii for the Sacramento Daily Union.

1) Explain what Twain's two main objectives were in writing his Letters from Hawaii.

2) Analyze how Twain used his writing style to achieve both of the above objectives, including at least three examples from the book.

Essay Topic 2

Explain how the Hawaiian legislature was formed, its main parts, their responsibilities, and examples of why Twain considered the legislature to be disorderly. Include an analysis of Twain's views on the Legislative Assembly, and the processing of court cases and bills.

Essay Topic 3

Princess Victoria's death caused an uproar within the Hawaiian political system while Twain was visiting the island.

1) Explain the details about Princess Victoria's life and its importance based on the information that Twain provided in his letter.

2) Describe how the island reacted to Princess Victoria's death and why.

3) Analyze the two options for the throne that Twain wrote about.

(see the answer keys)

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