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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 does Aubrey discover about his land holdings?

2. To what does the man admit?

3. What does Maturin continue to write about Clarissa?

4. What does Aubrey realize?

5. What is Aubrey doing as he is standing on the quarterdeck?

Short Essay Questions

1. Where do Surprise and Trulove sail and what passes between Maturin and Clarissa as they are sailing?

2. Describe the ensuing battle with the French and Kalahua's forces.

3. Describe the conversation during the wedding dinner.

4. Describe Captain Aubrey.

5. What happens after the victory by Aubrey's men and Puloani?

6. What has Aubrey unwittingly violated by having Padeen Coleman aboard and why is that a serious thing to Aubrey?

7. What does Clarissa tell Maturin about which he is excited and what does he do?

8. How does Aubrey finally figure out what is wrong with some of his officers and crew and what does he do to handle the situation?

9. What are Surprises orders?

10. Why does Aubrey send Bonden to scout the shore of Norfolk Island?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Though it is not as evident in this book as others, most of the entire series of novels concerning Captain Jack Aubrey takes place during the Napoleonic Wars; therefore understanding the political and social situation during that time helps to a greater understanding and appreciation of THE TRUELOVE and others in the series. Discuss one of the following:

1. Research and write an expository essay about how the Napoleonic Wars begin and end.

2. Research and write an expository essay about the naval aspect of the Napoleonic Wars between Britain and France.

3. Compare/Contrast the importance of the British navy during the Napoleonic Wars to the importance of the British navy during either WWI or WWII.

Essay Topic 2

Clarissa Harville (later Oakes) is the only woman on board the Truelove, although there are 2 young girls on board the ship, due to some unusual circumstances. Discuss the following:

1. Research the superstition related to having a woman on board a ship. Do you think the superstition has a basis in logic? What?

2. How did the superstition about a women on board give rise to the bare-chested figure of a woman often found on the prow of a ship?

3. Discuss three other superstitions that are peculiar to sailors of that time. Which of them might have some basis in reality? What is the reality that may be behind each superstition?

4. Is there any reason to pay attention to a superstition, whether on land or at sea? Why or why not?

Essay Topic 3

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.)

(see the answer keys)

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