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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. What tells Santiago that he is becoming unclear in the head?

2. How does the old man know the winds will blow all night?

3. What does the old man think about to build up his courage as the sun sets on the second day?

4. What promise does the old man make if he brings in the fish?

5. What amusing thing does the old man say to the fish as the fish begins to come nearer the skiff?

Short Essay Questions

1. On the second night, describe the old man's recollection that shows how strong he was years ago.

2. Give an example of how Santiago refuses to give up after losing the harpoon.

3. Describe the conditions during the first night after Santiago caught the big fish.

4. Santiago does not consider himself to be religious, but what happens to show that he was at one time before?

5. How does Hemingway demonstrate Santiago's expertise as a sailor and fisherman?

6. What does the fish do that helps revive Santiago from his weariness?

7. Discuss how Hemingway uses the man-of-war bird, the dolphins, and the flying fish to explain the nature of life in the sea.

8. Describe Santiago's meal on the second day and why he was so pleased after he ate.

9. Explain the significance of the scattered thoughts of the old man as he struggles to hold onto the fish.

10. What significance does Santiago place on the sudden pull the fish makes on the line after swimming steadily all night long?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay explaining you opinion on what happens to the old man after he returns with the marlin bones.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay about fishing as a hobby versus fishing for a living.

Essay Topic 3

Write an essay about all the causes for Santiago's becoming addled during this fishing trip.

(see the answer keys)

This section contains 915 words (approx. 4 pages at 300 words per page) View a FREE sample