The Attack explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Courage and Cowardice

  The defenders show bravery under fire, while some mutineers flee; Gray's steadfastness is highlighted.

• Loyalty and Betrayal

  The loyal party stands together against the mutineers, with Gray earning special commendation.

• Good versus Evil

  The battle clearly divides the loyal men from the treacherous pirates, ending in a moral victory.

Characters to notice

• Captain Smollett

  Leads the defense, assigns positions, and is wounded during the battle.

• Jim Hawkins

  Helps load muskets and fights with a cutlass, narrowly escaping Anderson.

• Doctor Livesey

  Defends the door and defeats an attacker with a cutlass.

• Squire Trelawney

  Fires from the north side and supports the wounded captain.

• Abraham Gray

  Praised by the captain for his duty; kills Job Anderson.

• Job Anderson

  Leads the mutineers' assault and is killed by Gray.

Key passages

• “Gray, I’ll put your name in the log; you’ve stood by your duty like a seaman.”

  Captain Smollett praises Gray for his loyalty and promises to record his good conduct.

  Shows the captain's recognition of steadfastness under pressure.

• “If they can get up to it, and fire in upon us through our own ports, things would begin to look dirty.”

  The captain warns that if the enemy reaches the loopholes, the defenders will be in serious danger.

  Highlights the tactical vulnerability of the blockhouse.

• “Five against three leaves us four to nine. That’s better odds than we had at starting.”

  After the battle, the captain calculates that the defenders now face better odds than before.

  Reflects the captain's strategic mindset and resilience.