*SPOILERS*
August 23, 2010 – August 29, 2010
The Aubreyad Press Gang Epic Adventure Week Eighteen
1. At the beginning of this chapter there are reflections on the Sophie and a mention of Dillon: “how fortunate he had been in his lieutenant”. What does this reference say about Jack’s character? Does it portend anything for the rest of the novel?
4. Despite Parker’s participation in many momentous battles, he remains mostly ignorant of and completely uninterested in the technicalities of the sailor’s craft, caring only about the appearance of the ship and his list. How is this possible?
3. What is the significance of the following remark (Jack to Stephen): “Oh, sharks are mostly gammon, you know: all cry and no wool. Unless there’s blood about, they prefer galley leavings any day. On the West Indies station I once went in after a jolly and dived plump on to the back of a huge great brute: he never turned a hair.”
4. We see a different side of Stephen as he practices with pistols on the deck. What effect does this scene have on your opinion of him? Of Jack Aubrey’s opinion of him?
5. Is the chase of the Bellone motivated by duty or a desire for revenge?
The Aubreyad Press Gang is engaged in a group read of the series. We have just started Post Captain. Feel free to join the discussion! You must be a registered member of the forums and the APG to post.
Questions by your captain.
Dr. Maturin suggests further reading: