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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. After killing the Mako shark, what is Santiago aware of as missing?

2. What does the old man do to prepare for the arrival of the shark?

3. How does the old man console himself as he returns home?

4. What last weapon does Santiago use against the sharks?

5. What does the boy order for Santiago at the Terrace Cafe?

Short Essay Questions

1. What is Santiago's analysis of having a cramp, especially when one is alone?

2. Discuss the conflict of resolution between the old man and the fish.

3. Describe the danger the Portuguese man-of-war man of war poses to a fisherman in a boat.

4. Since the fish is too large to fit into the boat, how does Santiago plan on getting it back to shore?

5. Explain the meaning of the statement that Santiago loved the lions in his dreams like he loved the boy.

6. What happens when the first shark attacks the marlin?

7. When the big fish first takes the bait, the old man thought about what he was sure the fish would do but he did not say it out loud. Why?

8. How does Santiago compare himself to the great sea turtles that are as big as a skiff and weigh a ton?

9. While sleeping in the boat, what are Santiago's dream like?

10. How does Santiago think about the night time conflict between himself and the great fish?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay about gaining knowledge and wisdom through experience versus formal education. Use Santiago as your example.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay about how people turn to religion when times are difficult.

Essay Topic 3

Write a summary of The Old Man and the Sea.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 778 words (approx. 3 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample