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This test consists of 5 multiple choice questions, 5 short answer questions, and 10 short essay questions.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. In great pain from the cold, what does the old man hope for?
(a) That he will not have to fight the sharks again.
(b) That the wind will pick up.
(c) That a boat will come out and help him.
(d) That there is a cold beer waiting for him.

2. What does Santiago think is unjust but something he must do?
(a) Eat more raw fish to survive.
(b) Kill the great fish on the end of his line.
(c) Cut the marlin loose and go back saying he had another day of bad luck.
(d) Act strange for the boy.

3. As his head becomes unclear again, what does Santiago ask himself?
(a) Why am I not dreaming of lions?
(b) What happened to the marlin's dignity?
(c) Is he bringing me in or am I bringing him in?
(d) Why didn't I just tow him behind the skiff?

4. How long had their last dry spell lasted before the old man and the boy caught some good fish?
(a) 84 days.
(b) 86 days.
(c) 64 days.
(d) 67 days.

5. Why does Santiago wish the marlin would sleep?
(a) So he could sleep and dream of lions.
(b) So he could slowly pull the marlin in.
(c) So he could get up and walk around.
(d) So he could catch his supper.

Short Answer Questions

1. Why doesn't Santiago put the marlin into his boat?

2. Thinking about what the marlin can see deep in the water, how does Santiago recall his own vision years ago?

3. Knowing what is coming as he approaches the island currents, what makeshift weapon does Santiago come up with?

4. How does he get something to eat?

5. What amazes Santiago as the boy talks about their first fishing trip?

Short Essay Questions

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

2. How does Santiago show his resolution as he holds the line and thinks about all the things the fish might do?

3. As the conflict between man and fish continues, what does Santiago contemplate to gain advantage for himself? Explain.

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

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

6. How does Hemingway use conversation between the old man and the boy to show Santiago's age?

7. After the marlin jumps during the night, there is a lull. What does it allow Santiago to do?

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

9. Why was it simple for Santiago to defeat the Negro of Cienfuegas when they had a rematch in the spring?

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

(see the answer keys)

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