Discuss the treatment of slaves aboard the slave ships. How does this treat affect Jack Aubrey?

Describe the nineteenth century fad of naturalism and use Stephen Maturim as an example of an enthusiast for this fad.

Discuss the ways in which the author uses authentic details to tell the story. Is this detail always a positive?

Describe the various attitudes of the characters in the story toward abolition.

Discuss Stephen's use of the coca leaves. How does he rationalize his abuse of the drug?

Compare Jack Aubrey's opinions regarding homosexuality to the popular opinion of his times. How does this compare to the popular opinion of our times?

Give a detailed portrait of Captain Thomas.

Describe how Jack and Sophie become estranged.

In your opinion, what is the difference between punctiliousness and competence? Does the former always require the latter? Site examples from the book.