Novel Study: 'Captain Blood' by Rafael Sabatini

Mr. Pollexfen was at one and the same time right and wrong – a condition much more common than is generally supposed.

‘Captain Blood’ by Rafael Sabatini, first published in 1922, is a classic rip-roaring adventure novel that explores themes of justice, true love, individual courage, and right versus wrong. It influenced many pirate novels and movies that followed it, including ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. The language is flowing and elaborate, a real thrill to read.

Here you will find resources to make a full Unit Study for the novel. A close look at characters and settings, the real history behind the tale (Sabatini loved to set his stories amidst real historical events), and the nature of and motivation behind Captain Blood’s decisions are examined thoroughly, with four short complementary texts included (a first-hand account of slavery by the man who inspired Captain Blood’s character; a letter from the real pirate-turned-privateer-turned-lieutenant-governor of Jamaica, Sir Henry Morgan; a brief history of the colonial Caribbean; and a 17th century document describing elements of the British justice system – each with a short assignment linking it to the novel) .

Included are:

· Before and After You Read Assignment

· Written Response and Discussion Questions

· As You Read Assignments

· Essay Writing Topics

· ‘Historical Accounts’ assignment

· A portrait – representing Captain Blood, or not?

· Four complementary texts (see description above) with short assignments

· Three music assignments, exploring the themes and mood of the story (instructions and links to free performances included)

(The novel must be procured separately.)

Note to teachers and parents: Most of the descriptions in the book are suggestive without going into great detail, however the first third of the book contains some disturbing violence (though not worse than any history novel with details about topics like ‘blood-letting’ or the beating of slaves). There is good reason for its presence in the story, and should not discourage readers from continuing.