A&E brings to life C. F. Forester's indomitable character, Horatio Hornblower. Forester created Hornblower in 1937 and he appeared in eleven books before Forester's death in 1966. Hornblower is an enduring literary persona. A likable, courageous youth sailing the seven seas in service for His Majesty's Navy during the Napoleonic Wars, Hornblower's adventures take him to the far corners of the earth and in contact with some of the most disagreeable characters. Hornblower's talents and mathematical prowess enable him to plot a course of action that will veer him out of the path of certain death time and time again and rise to meet any challenge. Hornblower would be useful for classes on Literature, World History, Maritime History, Geography and Science and Technology. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Episode III: The Duchess and the Devil

Still Acting Lieutenant of the "Indefatigable", Horatio Hornblower cleverly leads his crew to capture "La Rêve". Thus, Captain Pellew sends Hornblower on a delivery mission to Portsmouth, entrusting him with the French frigate, a set of top-secret dispatches, and the spunky Duchess of Wharfedale. Unfortunately, a navigational error sends the crew sailing amongst the Spanish fleet!They are forced to surrender and imprisoned under the supervision of Don Massaredo. Under arrest, the Duchess is revealed an imposter -- a fact that Hornblower discovers only after entrusting her with the precious dispatches!Matters are further complicated when, against Hornblower's command, Hunter, a rival senior crewman, leads a disastrous attempt at escape for which Hornblower accepts full responsibility. Upon his release from a brutal solitary confinement, Hornblower leads his crew in a spectacular rescue of a Spanish supply ship! Ultimately, the Spanish reward Hornblower's extraordinary gallantry with freedom for himself and his crew.

• "Dons"
• "Frog"
• dispatches
• folly
• gallantry
• garrison
• guillotine
• insubordination
• parole
• pilchards
• privateer
• punctilious
• ruse
• truce
• valiant

1. In the opening scene, Hunter says to Hornblower, "We're here to fight them [the French]". Hornblower responds, "No, we're here to defeat them". Describe Hornblower's strategy to capture "La Rêve". Therefore, how does Hornblower demonstrate the distinction between the aforementioned objectives?

2. Throughout this episode, note each time Hunter contradicts Hornblower. Identify Hunter's motivation for challenging Hornblower.

3. When the fog initially rolls in, what critical error does Hornblower make? What is his reasoning?

4. What ruse does Hornblower use to avoid capture by the Spanish? What is the special risk involved?

5. While Hornblower attempts to dispose of the top-secret dispatches, the Duchess insists, "I have as much right to risk my life for my country as you do". What does this reveal about her character? Briefly discuss this statement.

6. When the crew members first arrive in prison, they encounter Archie Kennedy, a former midshipman who they assumed had died. Describe his experience in prison and explain the reasons for his attitude of surrender. How do Hunter and Hornblower differ in their approach to Kennedy? What do these approaches reveal about their respective characters?

7. Why does the Duchess claim that Kennedy is delirious when he speaks to her upon his arrival in the sick room? Given what we later discover about her identity, what was Kennedy likely saying?

8. Kennedy's character develops into an important role in this episode. Identify his purpose(s) in the story?

9. "Panning" refers to the camera motion from left to right, or up and down. How is this technique used to intensify the atmosphere at dinner during the discussion of theatre between the Duchess, De Vergess, and Hornblower? Later, during Hunter's failed escape, describe the impact of the panning technique.

10. How could allowing Hornblower to dine with the Spanish - separate from his own crew - be considered a tactic on the part of the Spanish?

11. Explain why Hornblower insists on taking responsibility for the botched escape. Do you support his decision?

12. Define "Irony". How is it ironic that Kennedy cares for Hunter? What does this reveal about Hornblower's leadership?

13. Describe Hornblower's punishment. In your opinion, how did he manage to emerge in better condition than Kennedy?

14. What sacrifice does the Duchess make in order to avoid exposure? Is she justified in her decision? What does she claim to have lost as a result?

15. Why does Hornblower volunteer to rescue the Spanish cargo ship?

16. Without prompting, Hunter risks and loses his life rescuing the Spanish captain. Again, what does this demonstrate about Hornblower's leadership?

1. Conduct research and write a paper describing the role of European women during the Napoleonic era.

2. Develop a character sketch of "The Duchess of Wharfedale". Identify at least three traits (characteristics) and be sure to provide specific examples from the film for each.

3. Imagine that you are Hornblower in solitary confinement and that you have been permitted to keep a journal for the duration of your punishment. Write three entries documenting your thoughts and feelings at the beginning, middle, and end of your confinement.

4. Select one of these entries to develop into a soliloquy. Reviewing the video, pay close attention to Hornblower's mannerisms and speech. Strive to capture these characteristics as you rehearse and memorize your soliloquy. Perform this piece before a small group.

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